BULUAN, Maguindanao del Sur (PIA) – The provincial government of Maguindanao del Sur is keeping its history alive with the opening of a museum that celebrates the province’s culture and traditions.
Located within the provincial capitol compound in Buluan town, the Maguindanao del Sur Provincial Museum aims to serve as a repository of cultural heritage and a center for historical preservation.
According to information from the Bureau on Cultural Heritage under the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, this is the first provincial government-initiated museum in the entire Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Leonila Tinosa, provincial tourism officer, said the museum showcases significant artifacts that highlight the rich traditions and history of the province.
“We collected objects of cultural heritage, focusing on the preservation and conservation of Maguindanao del Sur’s culture,” Tinosa said.
“When you enter this building, you don’t just explore the province; you leave with a deeper understanding of where we come from,” she added.
The museum features a collection of historical heirlooms, or “pusaka,” which are more than 50 years old. Some of the notable artifacts on display include a dudan, or spitting bowl, gadol (a traditional tool), sundang (a bladed weapon), a bazooka from the 1900s and a banga (earthenware jar) from Datu Montawal’s old building.
The museum also showcases traditional Maguindanaon musical instruments such as the kulintang ensemble, gandingan and agong, along with a display on “sipa sa manggis,” a traditional Maguindanaon game.
Additionally, the museum features “inaul,” a traditional handwoven fabric of the Maguindanaon people, which represents their rich weaving heritage and artistry.
Emphasizing the importance of the museum in rekindling interest in the region’s history and heritage among the youth, Tinosa said, “Many in the younger generation are beginning to forget our culture. Through this museum, we hope to educate them about their roots and bring back our historical consciousness.”
The museum is open to the public, and visitors are encouraged to explore its exhibits.
Plans are also in place to collaborate with the Department of Education (DepEd) to facilitate educational field trips and tours for students, further strengthening awareness and appreciation of Maguindanao del Sur’s cultural legacy.
This milestone project was initiated by Gov. Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu and was funded through the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) 2023 award. (ORVR, PIA Region 12)
