Cotabato City — A proposal by Member of Parliament (MP) Naguib Sinarimbo to construct a Teduray Prayer and Ritual House has sparked both appreciation and concern among members of the Teduray community, highlighting the delicate importance of cultural sensitivity and respect for Indigenous traditions in government initiatives.
The proposed design features roofing inspired by the nito hat—a traditional headgear crafted from a native vine-like fern that thrives in the highlands of Upi. MP Sinarimbo described the symbolism as a gesture of honoring Teduray heritage.
However, community elders and cultural leaders stressed that while the effort is commendable, ritual houses, known as Tëninës, follow a specific and sacred design that holds deep spiritual meaning.
Alim M. Bandara noted that while the proposed structure may serve for gatherings, meetings, and conflict resolution, it would not be suitable for rituals. “There is a specific design for a ritual house we call Tëninës. Our spiritual leaders in charge of the Tëninës can explain the details if needed,” Bandara explained.
Timuay Letecio Datuwata also expressed appreciation for the initiative but urged that the design process should be guided by the NMIP (Non-Moro Indigenous Peoples) themselves. “The design of the said ritual house is not appropriate to the traditional design. The NMIP should decide on the design based on the traditional ritual house,” he said.
The exchange reflects a deeper conversation: that well-meaning projects must be rooted in dialogue with communities whose culture they aim to preserve. For Indigenous Peoples, rituals are not mere ceremonies but are expressions of identity, spirituality, and continuity with their ancestors. Even architectural details embody meanings that go beyond aesthetics.
The discussion also drew public commentary on social media, with some questioning the use of government funds for the project and raising comparisons with the construction of mosques for Muslim communities. Such debates underscore the complexity of balancing public resource allocation, cultural preservation, and inclusivity in a diverse region like the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
As the conversation continues, leaders emphasize that cultural initiatives should never be imposed but must emerge from genuine consultation and collaboration. The proposed Teduray Ritual House, if carefully designed with guidance from traditional leaders, could become more than just a structure—it could stand as a symbol of respect, recognition, and the government’s commitment to honoring the distinct identities of Indigenous Peoples.
In a region where multiple cultures and faiths coexist, the unfolding dialogue around the Tëninës reminds policymakers that sensitivity to traditions is not just courtesy—it is the foundation of lasting peace and meaningful governance.