COTABATO CITY — The Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH) awarded eight cultural masters yesterday, May 28, honoring their significant contributions in shaping the region’s cultural identity.
Carrying the theme “PUSAKA: Pugay sa Kasanayang Bangsamoro,” the ceremony held here recognized the outstanding Bangsamoro artists and artisans, paving their way as the latest addition to the region’s living cultural treasures.
BCPCH Chairperson Salem Lingasa emphasized that this year’s theme acknowledges the culture bearers as testaments to the strength, beauty, and diversity of Bangsamoro heritage.
“This theme resonates deeply with the soul of the Bangsamoro. Each group carries its own traditions, languages, and artistry, yet together, we have formed a unified identity—one that has withstood the test of time and the challenges of change,” said the Chairperson.
“Our diversity is not a division; it is our strength,” he continued.
The awardees include Purida Saratulla, the Kulintangan Cultural Master of Tawi-Tawi; Esmail Ahmad, Kutyapi Cultural Master of Maguindanao; Saring Janun, Gabbang Cultural Master of Basilan; Datu Attan Mabbul, Suling Cultural Master of Sulu; and Alimoden Mangorsi, Kulintang Cultural Master of Lanao del Sur.
Also recognized were Berto Mosfing, Fegerung Cultural Master representing the Indigenous Peoples of the BARMM; Haja Arbaya Palasab Nor, special award as Inaul Weaving Cultural Master; and Lourdes Mastura, recognized as Inaul preservation advocate.
Meanwhile, Minister Melanio Ulama of the Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MIPA) reflected on the shared origins of humanity, highlighting oneness among Bangsamoro.
“We come from the same beginning—Adam and Eve. Regardless of culture or belief, we were all created by one God. Whether you’re Teduray, Meranaw, Maguindanaon, IPs, or Christian—we are one people.”
He highlighted that the Bangsamoro are the ‘light,’ who guide others toward the national identity, subsequently saying, “If the Bangsamoro IPs, Muslims, and Christian settlers are united, there is no problem we cannot overcome.”
Joel Cadeliña, Office for Settler Communities (OSC) ex-officio commissioner representing MP Susana Anayatin, stated that diversity is a ‘gift,’ not a challenge.
He added that the Bangsamoro cultural bearers carry the wisdom of their ancestors, the struggles of the past, and the hopes of the future.
Last year, the BCPCH recognized traditional Bangsamoro weavers of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) at the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in Intramuros, Manila.
PUSAKA 2025 is in celebration of the National Heritage Month, commemorated every May in the Philippines under Proclamation No. 439, s. 2003, raising awareness and deepening appreciation for the nation’s cultural heritage.
Furthermore, the awarding ceremony is part of the Commission’s initiative under Recognition of Bangsamoro Cultural Artists and Artisans (RBCAA).
The RBCAA is among the flagship programs of the BCPCH, supporting the Government of the Day’s enhanced 12-point priority agenda on mainstreaming Bangsamoro culture and heritage. (Settie Jehana Baunto/BIO)
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