MindanaoToday.com | NHCP, BCPCH unveil historical markers in Marawi
MARAWI CITY – In celebration of National History Month, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), in partnership with the Bangsamoro Commission on Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH) and the city government of Marawi, unveiled four new historical markers in the city on August 18.
The markers, titled ‘Pagtatanggol sa Marawi,’ ‘Labanan sa Marawi,’ ‘Amai Pakpak,’ and ‘Kota Marawi,’ are situated at Lanao People’s Park and Public Library, Amai Pakpak Central Elementary School, and Marawi City Hall, respectively. These markers honor brave Meranaw fighters led by Amai Pakpak.
Amai Pakpak, also known as Datu Akadir Akobar, is a distinguished leader of the Meranaw fighters who courageously defended Marawi against the Spanish colonizers. He successfully repelled the Spanish during their initial attack in 1891. Four years later, the Spanish force, led by Spanish Governor-General Ramon Blanco, returned with a larger troop and more advanced weaponry, resulting in the defeat and death of many Meranaw fighters, including Amai Pakpak on March 10, 1895.
“These historical markers serve as proof of the significant role and contributions of the Meranaw people to the social history and nation-building of the Philippines,” stated NHCP Chair Prof. Regalado Torata Jose Jr.
He said the Meranaw’s resistance against the Spaniards was one of many uprisings across the country during the Spanish era, contributing to the Philippines’ independence on June 12, 1898.
BCPCH Chair Salem Lingasa emphasized that this event represents a significant milestone in Philippine historiography, bridging the gap between national, regional, and local narratives.
“By acknowledging the contributions of the Meranaw people and the Bangsamoro, we affirm that we are on the right path toward correcting historical injustices,” Lingasa remarked.
Lingasa reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Bangsamoro ancestors for future generations.
“It is in these crucial moments that we must capture the essence of our struggle, as they define and shape our collective journey as a socio-political community. Indeed, history defines us and makes us Bangsamoro,” he concluded.
The unveiling of the historical markers concluded with NHCP formally transferring ownership to Marawi’s LGU, represented by Mayor Majul Gandamra.
Key officials present during the event were BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Commissioner Robert Alonto, Tales of Marawi Project Manager Rohullah Al-Husseini Alonto, and Marawi City Schools Division Superintendent Anna-Zenaida Unte. (BIO/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
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