36 high school students showcase culinary talents

MARAWI CITY (PIA) – The provincial government of Lanao del Sur through the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office hosted its first Inter-School Culinary Contest on July 25 showcasing the culinary talents of local students.

The competition featured 12 teams with three members each from Sultan Mangalampa Daing National High School, Pooni Lomabao Memorial National High School, Bubonga-Marantao National High School, Mohammad Qaba-El National High School, Unda Memorial National Agricultural School, Datu Aleem Balindong National High School, Racman Pimping Maniri Dumarpa National Science High School, RC-Al Khawarizmi Integrated College Foundation Inc-SHS, Dhayfullah Islamic Institute Foundation Inc., 21st Integrated Learning Academy Inc., Marawi City National High School, and Ganassi National High School.

RC-Al Khawarizmi Integrated College Foundation Inc (RC-AKIC) Senior High School emerged as the grand champion, while Bubonga Marantao National High School claimed the first runner-up spot and the Best Appetizer award. Rounding out the top three was 21st Integrated Learning Center Inc.

The winning teams received trophies and cash prizes, with the champion receiving P50,000, the first runner-up P30,000, and the second runner-up P15,000. Consolation prizes of P5,000 were also given to the remaining participants.

Coach Asnawi Campong of RC-AKIC expressed pride in his students’ achievement, attributing their success to the platform provided by the provincial government. He emphasized the importance of such events in discovering and nurturing young culinary talents in Lanao del Sur.

“Gya a program tano imanto na tanto ko mapiya phagilayn sabap sa pkhailay tano so mga wata tano saya sa Lanao del Sur a adna mga talent iran pagdating sa kapaninindaan. As a coach of RC-AKIC, grabe so kaba at excitement ko while my students are doing their dish. A big salute po to our provincial government for this very wonderful and successful program. Pangninta di aya mbaloy a kaposan ka aya mbaloy a poonan a kamapiyaan o mga wata tano saya sa Lanao del Sur,” he said.

(This program is truly amazing because we can see the skills of our students from Lanao del Sur in the field of cooking. As the coach of RC-AKIC, I felt a great deal of nervousness and excitement while my students were preparing their dishes. A big salute to our provincial government for this wonderful and successful program. I hope this is not the last but the beginning of great things for our youth here in Lanao del Sur.)

A total of 36 students from 12 schools in Lanao del Sur participated in the first Inter-School Culinary Contest organized by the Provincial Tourism, Culture and the Arts Office. Each school had a team of three students who competed to showcase their culinary skills and preserve the province's gastronomic heritage. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10)

Judges for the competition included Chef Ansary Cali from The Fam Grill, Chef Mon Cardenas of Monster Kitchen, and Office of the Provincial Governor Chief of Staff Yarra Macarambon who praised the students for their skills and ability to preserve and showcase the province’s culinary traditions.

“Sobrang galing niyong lahat. Beyond my expectation. And sobrang impressed ako kasi at that young na-maintain niyo or pinag-aaralan nio na ang Meranaw cuisine, because honestly, I’ve tried different international cuisine but I never ever dared to try Meranaw cuisine kasi para sa akin para sacred siya e. Parang gusto kong matuto but maybe in time ‘pag alam kong kaya ko na. So, could you just imagine how impressed I am sa inyong lahat. For me, lahat kayo panalo.”

(You all did so amazingly beyond my expectations. I’m extremely impressed because, at such a young age, you’ve already maintained or are studying Meranaw cuisine. Honestly, I’ve tried different international cuisines, but I never dared to try Meranaw cuisine because, to me, it feels sacred. It’s like I want to learn it, but maybe in time, when I feel ready. So, you can just imagine how impressed I am with all of you. For me, you’re all winners.)

This culinary competition follows the success of last year’s municipal-level contest, highlighting the provincial government’s commitment to promoting and preserving Lanao del Sur’s gastronomic heritage.

This event marked the second culinary competition organized by the provincial government of Lanao del Sur, following the success of last year’s municipal-level contest. (ABR/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Meranaw dishes take center stage in inter-school culinary showdown

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Lanao del Sur’s rich culinary heritage was on full display as the province hosted its first inter-school culinary competition. A cornerstone event for the province’s 65th founding anniversary celebration, the competition was organized by the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office (PTCAO) on July 25, 2024.

Twelve schools from across the province battled it out, with aspiring chefs showcasing their skills in appetizer and main course categories. A unique challenge for contestants was the mandatory use of Tugaya (candlenut) oil, a local ingredient, in all dishes.

Participating schools included Sultan Mangalampa Daing National High School, Pooni Lomabao Memorial National High School, Bubonga-Marantao National High School, Mohammad Qaba-El National High School, Unda Memorial National Agricultural School, Datu Aleem Balindong National High School, Racman Pimping Maniri Dumarpa National Science High School, RC-Al Khawarizmi Integrated College Foundation Inc-SHS, Dhayfullah Islamic Institute Foundation Inc.,21st Integrated Learning Academy Inc., Marawi City National High School, and Ganassi National High School.

“Sa mga ganitong program, pwede nating mapromote ang Lanao delSur bilang pinakaunang probinsiya sa buong bansa na makaestablish ng Halal industry. Sa mga activities din na ganito, makikita natin ang skills ng mga estudyante,” said Provincial Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Adiong.

(Through these programs, we can promote Lanao del Sur as a pioneer in establishing the Halal industry nationwide. These kinds of activities also allow us to showcase the talents of our students.)

A variety of Meranaw dishes, including biyareng, chicken piyaparan, chicken randang, and piyaparan a bakas,were presented. The dishes were judged based on taste, presentation, execution, and overall texture

“The competition is a testament to the hard work, innovation, and cultural pride of our Meranaw students,” said Provincial Tourism Officer Ahmad Nour-al-dinn Tamano Jr.

Tamano also expressed admiration for the students’ dedication to preserving their culinary heritage. He was impressed by their eagerness to participate in the competition and their talent in showcasing the rich traditions of Lanao del Sur.

A Farmers Market was integrated into the event, allowing participants to source the necessary ingredients for their culinary creations. The market showcased locally grown produce, supporting local farmers and producers. Unused items were donated to identified torils (Islamic non-formal learning institutions accepting stay-in learners) in the province.

A Farmers Market offered free local produce to participants of the first Lanao del Sur inter-school culinary showdown. Leftover ingredients went to local communities after the competition. (Photo: OSG/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

To add to the excitement, a bench cheering competition was held among the participants’ supporters.

The PTCAO expressed its intention to host another culinary event to further elevate the profile of Meranaw cuisine. Last year’s PTCAO culinary competition featured local government units in the province. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao Sur gov’t simplifies access to services, boosts local businesses

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur spearheaded a Government Services Exhibit and Food Bazaar, an innovative “one-stop shop” to simplify public access to essential services while promoting local businesses.

The weeklong event, held at the Provincial Capitol Gym on July 15-21, provided locals with convenient access to services offered by various government agencies, including the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE), Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform, Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism (MTIT), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Land Transportation Office (LTO), National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), Civil Service Commission (CSC), Cooperative and Social Enterprise Authority (CSEA), Pag-IBIG Fund, GSIS, PhilHealth, Amanah Islamic Bank, Land Bank, Philippine National Bank, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Philippine Post Corporation, and Marawi City Treasurer’s Office.

MOLE Provincial Head Norolain Dimaluna commended the provincial government, stating that consolidating agencies in one location significantly facilitated public access to essential government services.

The one-stop shop also served as a platform for public education, according to Mohammad Cayongcat, head of LTFRB Lanao del Sur. He reported that their booth served an average of 20-25 individuals daily, providing information about the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) modernization program requirements to commuters and stakeholders in the transport sector.

The Food Bazaar section, on the other hand, offered a showcase for local Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Malano Mai, senior trade and industry development specialist of MTIT Lanao del Sur, said the setup promoted the catering services of local MSMEs to government agencies, potentially leading to future partnerships.

“Maganda ang set-up kasi napromote sa mga government agencies yung mga catering services ng mga MSMEs para kung may mga activities yung mga agencies, pwede nilang ma tap yung mga MSME-caterers natin,” she added.

(The setup is good because the catering services of MSMEs were promoted to government agencies so that if the agencies have activities, they can tap our MSME caterers.)

Mai expressed optimism that these agencies would consider hiring local caterers for future events, fostering a stronger local economy.

The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur hosted a weeklong event, combining a Government Services Exhibit with a Food Bazaar. This one-stop shop brought essential government services directly to the public, while also promoting the products of local food businesses. (DCC/PIA-10)

Meanwhile, NF Catering Services owner Noraisah Pangcoga described her participation in the provincial government’s food bazaar as a highly motivating experience. Having never participated in such an event before, Pangcoga was delighted by the consistent increase in her daily sales. She highlighted that this platform provided a valuable opportunity for her home-based business to expand its business reach.

“Through this also, nakapamigay kami ng flyers sa mga government agencies at mayroong nag-iinquire na din sa service namin (we were able to distribute flyers to government agencies, and some have already inquired about our services),” she said. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur opening spotlights Meranaw achievers

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The provincial government of Lanao del Sur launched the month-long celebration of the 65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur (Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok Festival) on July 4, beginning with a ceremony to recognize individuals who have achieved distinction for Lanao del Sur.

Acknowledged at the event were WBC Female World Atomweight Champion Nor-Farajane Guro Sabellina, 3rd Qatar International Qur’an Competition champion Mohammad Nadhir Asgar Jr., Harvard Medical School Top 3 Capstone Authors Dr. Aslama Masacal Alauya-Lamping, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Majmaah University valedictorian Nor Jamal Batugan, among others.

Grateful for the recognition, these individuals appreciated the provincial government for honoring their contributions and vowed to inspire future generations.

“I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to the province of Lanao del Sur for bestowing on me the Pride of Ranaw award. This esteemed recognition is not just a testament to my efforts but a reflection of the province’s unwavering commitment to celebrating and honoring the achievements of its constituents. It is an acknowledgment that together, as a community, we can achieve greatness,” said Batugan

Alauya-Lamping, a physician specializing in pulmonary and internal medicine,  expressed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and its role in her academic journey. She stated that one of her motivations for studying at Harvard was her identity as a Meranaw.

Sabellina, on the other hand, shared that the recognition as the first woman of the Bangsamoro to achieve the world atomweight boxing championship has been more than just a personal achievement; it is a testament to the unwavering support and belief of her family, mentors, and the entire province that has stood steadfastly behind her.

“I am reminded of the power of dreams and the potential within us. Regardless of our circumstances, I hope my journey serves as inspiration, especially to the young women of Lanao del Sur, encouraging them to pursue their passions with relentless determination and embrace their cultural identity with pride,” she added.

The Pagana Meranaw, which kicked off Lanao del Sur’s 65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur (Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok Festival) on July 4, 2024, honored exceptional Meranaw achievers. Deeply grateful for the provincial government’s recognition, these individuals expressed their gratitude and affirmed their dedication to inspiring future generations. (Photo: DCC/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

The ceremony also recognized the Kamapiyaan sa Tagoranao Marketing Cooperative’s collective efforts. Their “Kakaw Meranaw” chocolate project received the AVPA Paris 2023 Medal Gourmet Chocolate of Local Origin award.

Sittie Aisah Balt, Kakaw Meranaw project head, said their social enterprise is a collective effort with passion and dedication to help. “I didn’t realize I was already helping not just one person but a community,” she added.

Other awardees were Mohammad Nur Casib, bronze medalist in the 2022 and 2023 International Mathematical Olympiad; Samsodin Abdulrahman, gold medalist for Singapore Body Weightlifting International; Jamal Rahmat Pandi Jr., silver medalist for badminton in the 13th ASEAN School Games; and Abdul Barode, bronze medalist in the PUBG Mobile SEA Games. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur’s “Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok” celebration kicks off

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The provincial government of Lanao del Sur officially launched its month-long founding anniversary celebration, dubbed “Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok,” with a traditional “Pagana Meranaw” ceremony at the provincial capitol gym on July 4.

Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Rakiin-Adiong led the ceremony, joined by provincial government officials, representatives from national and regional agencies in the province, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

Adiong emphasized the celebration’s importance in promoting Meranaw identity and cultural preservation. He also called for unity and cooperation among the Meranaw people to achieve progress, peace, and order in Lanao del Sur and contribute to developing the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The month-long celebration features various activities, including stakeholder engagements focused on youth development, disaster risk reduction, women’s and children’s issues, innovative governance, and sustainable development in the province. These are the Ranao Youth Summit (July 9–11), the Disaster Resilience Summit (July 22–23), the CSO Summit (July 24), and the ICT Summit (July 26).

Several contests will showcase the talents and skills of Lanao del Sur residents, including the Ranaw Sensation Finals (July 30), an interschool culinary competition (July 25), chess, scrabble, and dart tournaments (July 8–10), essay writing (July 22), photography and video-making contests (July 19–23), and quiz bowl (July 28).

Sports enthusiasts can participate in a marathon, walkathon, off-road racing (July 25–26), an airsoft tournament (July 20–21), badminton and volleyball tournaments, a cycling adventure around the lake (July 27), and “Kasipa sa Ranaw,” an exhibition featuring Meranaw cultural masters playing the traditional sport “Kapisa sa Lama” (July 10, 17, and 24).

Activities geared towards revitalizing agriculture, business, and the environment include a livestock and poultry congress (July 24),  a food service supplier expo (July 5–6), a Ranao Lake coastal clean-up drive, and community tour guiding training.

Completing the activities is the food bazaar and government services exhibit (July 15–19), where visitors can enjoy local delicacies while accessing important services offered by national, regional, and provincial agencies, including financial and medical assistance payouts, minor surgical services, and dental and optical missions. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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