Cotabato City came alive with vibrant colors and profound reverence on Thursday, December 19, 2024, as the Bangsamoro people reenacted the historic arrival of Shariff Kabunsuan. Over 500 years ago, this Arab-Malay missionary brought the Islamic faith to the shores of mainland Mindanao, planting the seeds of a cultural and spiritual transformation that continues to define the Bangsamoro identity.
Bangsamoro Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim led the celebrations, paying tribute to Shariff Kabunsuan during the annual Guinakit Festival. “If there were no Shariff Kabunsuan, there would be no Bangsamoro and no Muslim Mindanao,” Ebrahim declared as he presided over the Guinakit fluvial parade along the iconic Rio Grande de Mindanao.
The festival, celebrated every December 19, commemorates the arrival of Shariff Kabunsuan in the 16th century. It features the Guinakit fluvial parade, a visual feast of ornately designed boats reminiscent of those once used by royal families. These boats, adorned with intricate decorations, gracefully navigated the river, symbolizing the enduring cultural and historical ties of the Bangsamoro people.
Honoring a Spiritual Luminary
Chief Minister Ebrahim emphasized the significance of Shariff Kabunsuan’s arrival, describing it as a cornerstone of the Bangsamoro’s heritage and identity. “His journey was not just about bringing a faith but also about uniting a people and laying the foundation for a thriving community rooted in faith, unity, and resilience,” Ebrahim noted.
The celebration brought together various government agencies, local government units, and community organizations, demonstrating the collective spirit of the Bangsamoro in honoring their shared history. The theme of this year’s festival, “Colors of Guinakit: Honoring the Past, Navigating the Future,” encapsulated the dual focus on preserving heritage and inspiring progress.
A Bridge to the Past and the Future
Minister Abuamri Taddik of Trade, Investments, and Tourism likened the Guinakit boats to “time machines” that reconnect the Bangsamoro people with their roots. “This festival is not just about celebrating the past; it is also about recognizing our present achievements and envisioning our future as a resilient and creative community,” Taddik said.
The festivities also included cultural performances, exhibitions, and community activities that showcased the diversity and richness of the Bangsamoro culture. Cotabato City Mayor Mohammad Ali “Bruce” Matabalao, represented by OIC City Administrator Mahaleah Dumama-Midtimbang, reiterated the city’s commitment to fostering unity and inclusivity as the heart of the Bangsamoro region.
A Call for Compassion and Unity
Chief Minister Ebrahim concluded the celebration with a heartfelt message to his constituents, urging them to embrace the teachings of Shariff Kabunsuan. “Let us embody compassion, deepen our faith, and commit ourselves to one another as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead,” he said.
The Shariff Kabunsuan Festival stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of a spiritual leader who transformed a region and a people. As the Guinakit boats glide along the Rio Grande de Mindanao, they carry not only the stories of the past but also the aspirations of a thriving, united Bangsamoro homeland.