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DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY ABOUT MINDANAO

MindaNOW: Beyond Notions

Mindaphobia – a term used to describe a fear of going to Mindanao; often

tagged as violent, unsafe, and dangerous place to visit to, Mindanao is considered
as the least traveled part of the Philippines due to news on terrorist attacks, possible
combats, and kidnaps for ransom. For years, the Southern area of the Philippines
has been stigmatized and ostracized by the country as if it is a delinquent child,
misjudged, misunderstood. But beyond these embedded notions and perceptions
about Mindanao, what really lies along the peninsulas of this island? Are the beliefs
true, and correct? Or is Mindanao something beyond that?
Situated in the southern part of the archipelago, surrounded by
the Bohol, Philippine, Celebes, and Sulu seas; irregularly shaped, it measures 293
miles (471 km) north to south and 324 miles (521 km) east to west, Mindanao is
known to have the largest Muslim community and diverse native ethnic groups in the
country. Because the area is near to the countries of Malaysia and Indonesia,
historical accounts mention that Muslim, Hindu and Buddhism influence were very
prominent during the early times of Mindanao because of neighboring migrants. The
term “Mindanao” was coined after the largest group which settled in the area –
“Maguindanaos.”
The island has been dubbed the country’s ‘Land of Promise’ and promisingly
more than what you have expected. Mainly characterized by narrow coastal plains,
peninsulas, and faulted mountains, Mindanao has a range of tropical rainforests and
great biodiversity. Some of the world’s largest pineapples, bananas, and pomelos
are grown here. There are also abundant mineral resources, and the area takes
pride in its rich variety of fish, corals, and pearls, wherein the finest pearls are found
in Sulu City in Mindanao.
Among the three main island groups of the Philippines, Mindanao seems to
be the least visited despite its spectacular beaches and fine-looking tourist
attractions. The tourism industry in Mindanao has been plagued by terrorism threats.
However, there are notable areas which have won the hearts of adventure-seekers
and travelers such as the teardrop-shaped island of Siargao, popular to surfers
which is found in Surigao del Norte whereas adventure-seekers are being drawn to
the majestically blue river called Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur;
Davao Region which is one of the most highly-urbanized cities of the country,
marvelous beach escapades, and being home to the endangered Philippine
eagle species; The pear-shaped island of Camiguin renowned for its long stretch of
white sand and clear turquoise waters; For mountain climbers and nature lovers, you
should not skip to visit the highest peak in the country, Mount Apo. Situated in
between Davao Region and Cotabato province, the active stratovolcano is
surrounded by rivers, boulders, and forests rich in flora and fauna, making the
climbing and trek experience an extraordinary and challenging one. And, for anyone
looking to have an ultimate adventure travel in the Philippines, it’s never complete
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DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY ABOUT MINDANAO
without visiting the country’s white water rafting adventure capital, which is also in
the island of Mindanao. The Cagayan River or Rio Grande de Cagayan has wild,
unlimited rapids perfect for an adrenaline-filled experience. This fast-paced, extreme
outdoor activity will surely test your nerves!
Whether looking for a stress-free relaxing vacation, or days of hard-out
adrenaline pumping action, Mindanao has it all. However, aside from those “places
to visit to”, we can already see how rich the culture of Mindanao is through its
languages. In Mindanao, there are dozens of languages spoken, among the most
widely spoken are Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Surigaonon, Tausug, Maranao,
Maguindanao, and Chavacano. 
Weaving is culture, an identity, and a way of life for some of the most
indigenous communities in the Philippines. Some people might think that these are
just another colorful fabric you would see elsewhere but it’s not. It’s carefully
handcrafted by the creative Mindanao people; each has its own meaning for different
uses. There’s something special about the Mindanao culture and arts that involve
weaving. For the people of the south, weaving is a huge part of their Mindanao
culture and tradition that distinguishes them from the rest. 
We may be living in a digital age right now, but some parts of the Philippines
are working hard to preserve its rich cultural heritage for the world to see and
experience. The culture and tradition of Mindanao is like no other. The Mindanao folk
dances are just one among the many things that make the cultural practices in
Mindanao stand out. These folk dances play a big role in the Mindanao tribes and
their culture.
Experiencing the culture of Mindanao is not complete without tasting the rich
flavors of the region. Mindanao cuisine is very recognizable in terms of flavor
compared to the rest of the Philippines. Spanish and Malay flavors of nearby
Southeast Asian countries largely influenced how the locals cook as dishes in
Mindanao are known for their use of coconut milk and spices like chili, onion, and
ginger.
And to be able to experience the Mindanao culture and tradition fully, you
should not miss the exciting festivals featuring the different cultures of Mindanao
where locals perform lively street and Mindanao folk dances to the beat of music of
Mindanao. Kadayawan, Tuna, Sibug-Sibug, and Lanzones Festivals are among
these.
Years ago, Mindanao was in a miserable mess where peace is something
only a Mindanaoan can find in a dream. Today, the Land of Promise is slowly waking
up, and realizing its potential. Years ago, who would know that Mindanao will reach
the kind of heights that seemed so impossible back then? And it is finally happening-
a MindaNOW indeed! Thus, despite all the derogatory comments and notions that
have been circulating around the minds of people from the North, there is only one
thing I could say, “Kung naa kay panahon, dalikyat diri sa Mindano, mag-istorya ta.”