May 07, 2024
Weaving the Bangsamoro Identity: A Celebration of Culture and Peace
In a historic event, the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH-BARMM) proudly presented the Bangsamoro Cultural Heritage Exhibit, taking the center stage at the Open Gallery of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) from May 7 to May 31, 2024.
Following the theme “Weaving the Bangsamoro Identity: Weaving a Culture of Peace as One Bangsamoro Identity,” the exhibit commemorates the 2024 National Heritage Month (NHM). Displaying a diverse collection of weaving products from the provinces of the BARMM region, including Inaul of Maguindanao, Langkit of Lanao del Sur, Tennun of Yakan in Basilan, Saruk Kambigasan of Sulu, Tepo of Tawi-Tawi, Monom representing the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), and a range of weaving materials and cultural items.
The month-long cultural exhibit draws inspiration from the intricate weaves of the BARMM, aiming to foster understanding of peacebuilding through the art of weaving, symbolizing the harmonious integration of diverse elements to achieve a common goal, and promoting sustainable peace in the Bangsamoro region.
NCCA Executive Director III, Dr. Eric Babar Zerrudo, highlighted in his welcome address the transcendent nature of Bangsamoro weaving while emphasizing its ability to traverse geographical boundaries and showcase the beauty of Bangsamoro cultures on a global scale.
Echoing this sentiment, BCPCH Chairperson Salem Y. Lingasa, Ph.D., underscored the importance of preserving the Bangsamoro cultural heritage for future generations. He described the exhibit as a rich tapestry of Bangsamoro cultures, reflecting the convergence of different traditions that contribute to the Bangsamoro Identity.
To provide esteemed guests and onlookers of the exhibit its purpose and objectives, BCPCH Community Affairs Officer V Aaron-Jeff D. Usman further enriched the narratives of the various collections of the Bangsamoro tapestries that continually define the rich heritage of the Bangsamoro people. The cultural exhibit also provided the narratives that binds the commonalities among the ethnic groups towards the quest for lasting peace and development in the Bangsamoro.
Under the supervision of the BCPCH Cultural Affairs Section, led by Sheryan P. Guialel, and curated by the Museum Section, headed by Glenn Francis C. Lanticse, the cultural exhibit serves as a vibrant reflection of the resilience and diversity of the Bangsamoro people. Through intricate patterns and motifs, skilled weavers have woven together narratives of hope, self-determination, and the pursuit of lasting peace.
