The Philippines, an archipelago, takes pride in its rich tradition of sailing and maritime trading even during the pre-Spanish period.
One prominent boat, which belonged in the country’s maritime past is the guinakit in southern Mindanao.
The vessel was used by Moro royalty in navigating the coastal and inland waterways. It is also believed to be the one used by Malay missionary Shariff Kabunsuan in preaching and spreading the Islamic faith in the south.
But over the years, with the modernization of shipping, the iconic colorful boat has been relegated to oblivion and is only revived occasionally during special occasions to showcase the rich Islamic culture.
The town of Malapatan on the eastern coast of Sarangani Bay in Sarangani province is among the few localities that relive this rich seafaring heritage during the "Guinakit sa Sugoda Malapatan" which is part of the annual Pakaradyan Festival.
Now in its 14th edition, the event’s highlight is the maritime parade and competition of modern renditions of guinakit boats by entries from the town’s barangays.
The recent festivity in the agricultural and fisheries town was doubly special as it marked its 50th founding anniversary when it was carved out from its mother town of Glan, which was then part of the Empire Province of Cotabato which covers present-day Soccsksargen Region.
Other highlights during the festival were the float parade, the 50 Icons of Malapatan photo exhibit, and the kuyog—a traditional march by Islamic royals usually done during weddings, to commemorate the arrival of Moros during the pre-Spanish era.
The march was led by outgoing municipal mayor Alfredo Singcoy to symbolize the unity in diversity of the town’s tri-people—the Moros, dominated by the Maguindanaon tribe; the Blaan indigenous people; and the Visayan Christian settlers.
Adding glamor and cultural significance to this year’s Pakaradyan was National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ inauguration of the weaving center of Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan Bai Estelita Bantilan, a master weaver of the traditional Blaan igem or mat.
Bantilan was awarded the National Living Treasure in 2017 by President Rodrigo Duterte and was officially honored at Malacañang early this year.
Located at Upper Lasang village, the indigenous hut will become a cultural hub and the newest tourist attraction in Sarangani.
Malapatan is also known for the inaul handwoven fabric under the Fabli Guni (a Blaan term which means “I am selling this”) brand which forms part of the Moro exquisite regalia, as well as bags, shawls, and other fashion accessories.