
About Inaul Festival
The Inaul Festival in Maguindanao is a colorful celebration that highlights the artistry and cultural pride of the Maguindanaon people through the intricate weaving of Inaul fabric. This handwoven textile, known for its vibrant patterns and deep symbolism, takes center stage during the festival with street dances, parades, cultural shows, and exhibits that showcase the province’s heritage. It’s not just a festival—it’s a living expression of tradition, unity, and identity.
Inaul or Inol literally translates to "weaved" in English. It is a hand-woven fabric by the Maguindanaon women weavers. It is traditionally used as a "malong" or a "bara-bangsa," which describes royalty. Before, the use of Inaul reflected the status symbol of the wearer in society. These fabrics are woven with stunning colors with their own meaning. Yellow and orange signify royalty, red is for bravery, green is for peace and harmony, and white is for purity. The use of gowns made from Inaul during the Miss Universe 2016 pageant made this local product a world-class fabric.
Inaul Festival Photos



Important Details About Inaul Festival
- Location/Address: Maguindanao del Sur
- History: First Inaul Festival was launched on February 9 to 14, 2017
- Scheduled Date: February 14
- Activities: Grand Parade, Quran Reading, mountain bike challenge, and many more.
- Costumes: Colorful Theme
I don't have my DSLR with me, so the photos above were captured using a not-so-expensive action camera. This Inaul Festival performance was part of the Aliwan Fiesta 2017 held at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila. Their amazing talents, gorgeous colors, and designs brought them to the clouds after receiving several awards, such as First Runner Up for the Float competition, Second Place for Tugtog ng Aliwan, and one of the runners for the Dance competition.
The Inaul Festival goes beyond being a cultural event; it’s a vibrant reminder of the Maguindanaon people’s enduring craftsmanship and heritage. By experiencing the festival, visitors not only witness the beauty of Inaul but also gain a deeper appreciation of Mindanao’s rich cultural diversity. Truly, it is a celebration that weaves together history, artistry, and community spirit.
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