Backpacking in Maguindanao del Sur – Hidden Gems in Bangsamoro

Jump to: About Maguindanao del Sur | How to Get There | Top Tourist Spots | Suggested Itinerary | Sample Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Maguindanao del Sur

Maguindanao del Sur is a land of rich history, Muslim heritage, and natural wonders, located in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Though often overlooked, this province offers off-the-beaten-path destinations ideal for cultural immersion and adventurous exploration.

Most Gorgeous Mosques in the Philippines

The Grand Mosque or the Masjid Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah in Cotabato City, Province of Maguindanao del Norte, is currently the biggest mosque in the Philippines. The minarets are 43 meters, equivalent to a 15-storey building, with a pilot's light on top. The walls are white, and the gigantic domes are covered with gold and crescent moons on top. 

8 Days Solo Backpacking in Regions 12, 13, and BARMM

Introduction:

So far, traveling to the provinces in Regions 12, 13, and part of the BARMM is the most expensive trip. Again, that's so far. Nonetheless, this part of Mindanao is one of the great tourist destinations in the Philippines. There are fine white sand beaches, gigantic waterfalls, lakes, historical sites, and many more.

The colorful Inaul Festival

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 signifies 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.