MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The provincial government of Lanao del Sur launched the month-long celebration of the 65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur (Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok Festival) on July 4, beginning with a ceremony to recognize individuals who have achieved distinction for Lanao del Sur.
Acknowledged at the event were WBC Female World Atomweight Champion Nor-Farajane Guro Sabellina, 3rd Qatar International Qur’an Competition champion Mohammad Nadhir Asgar Jr., Harvard Medical School Top 3 Capstone Authors Dr. Aslama Masacal Alauya-Lamping, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Majmaah University valedictorian Nor Jamal Batugan, among others.
Grateful for the recognition, these individuals appreciated the provincial government for honoring their contributions and vowed to inspire future generations.
“I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to the province of Lanao del Sur for bestowing on me the Pride of Ranaw award. This esteemed recognition is not just a testament to my efforts but a reflection of the province’s unwavering commitment to celebrating and honoring the achievements of its constituents. It is an acknowledgment that together, as a community, we can achieve greatness,” said Batugan.
Alauya-Lamping, a physician specializing in pulmonary and internal medicine, expressed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and its role in her academic journey. She stated that one of her motivations for studying at Harvard was her identity as a Meranaw.
Sabellina, on the other hand, shared that the recognition as the first woman of the Bangsamoro to achieve the world atomweight boxing championship has been more than just a personal achievement; it is a testament to the unwavering support and belief of her family, mentors, and the entire province that has stood steadfastly behind her.
“I am reminded of the power of dreams and the potential within us. Regardless of our circumstances, I hope my journey serves as inspiration, especially to the young women of Lanao del Sur, encouraging them to pursue their passions with relentless determination and embrace their cultural identity with pride,” she added.
The ceremony also recognized the Kamapiyaan sa Tagoranao Marketing Cooperative’s collective efforts. Their “Kakaw Meranaw” chocolate project received the AVPA Paris 2023 Medal Gourmet Chocolate of Local Origin award.
Sittie Aisah Balt, Kakaw Meranaw project head, said their social enterprise is a collective effort with passion and dedication to help. “I didn’t realize I was already helping not just one person but a community,” she added.
Other awardees were Mohammad Nur Casib, bronze medalist in the 2022 and 2023 International Mathematical Olympiad; Samsodin Abdulrahman, gold medalist for Singapore Body Weightlifting International; Jamal Rahmat Pandi Jr., silver medalist for badminton in the 13th ASEAN School Games; and Abdul Barode, bronze medalist in the PUBG Mobile SEA Games. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)
