Bangsamoro, Autonomous region in southern Philippines
Description
The Bangsamoro region covers several provinces in southern Mindanao, including Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao, with Cotabato City serving as its administrative center. This autonomous territory stretches across mainland and island areas with varied landscapes from coastal zones to highland regions.
History
American colonial administration created the Moro Province in 1903 by grouping several southern districts under a single military government. The current autonomous territory emerged through peace agreements between the Philippine government and Muslim groups after decades of armed conflict.
Culture
Local government offices in Cotabato City use Arabic alongside English and Filipino in official documents, while traditional Maranao weaving and Maguindanao metalwork appear in public markets. Muslim prayer times shape the daily rhythm of public institutions, and brightly decorated mosques define skylines across provincial capitals.
Practical
Travelers should respect local customs and religious practices, especially during Muslim holidays and prayer times. English is understood in government buildings and larger towns, while local languages such as Maguindanaon and Maranao prevail in rural areas.
Did you know?
The parliament in Cotabato City uses an electoral system that reflects tribal lineages and religious leadership structures within the government framework. The territory manages education and religious affairs independently while coordinating security decisions with Manila.
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Fort Pilar
242 kmSultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque
9.5 km
Mount Dulang-dulang
124.6 km
Bangsamoro Parliament
2.3 km
Mount Ragang
60.3 km
Gomantong Caves
709.7 km
Agnes Keith House
695.4 km
Bud Dajo
377.7 km
Mount Makaturing
49.1 km
Turtle Islands National Park
695.3 km
Panguan Islet
641.6 km
Zamboanga City Hall
242.6 km
Tabin Wildlife Reserve
656.6 kmTun Sakaran Marine Park
680 km
Fort Pikit
50.3 km
Pasonanca Natural Park
240.5 km
Bangsamoro Government Center
2.2 km
Puu Jih Shih Temple
698.8 kmMadai Caves
730.1 kmKutawato Caves
968 m
Panampangan Island
520.8 kmAga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts
87 km
Marawi Cathedral
87 km
Sam Sing Kung Temple
695.6 km
Isabela Cathedral
258.2 kmSacred Mountain National Park
89.7 km
St. Mary's Cathedral, Sandakan
696 km
Cotabato Regional and Medical Center
2.4 km
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