COTABATO CITY—In line with the annual commemoration of the arrival of Arab Missionary Shariff Muhammad Kabunsuan this coming Dec. 15-19, the Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism (MTIT) is gearing up for a series of activities in the region.
This will include the conduct of a week-long trade fair, tourism exhibit, photo gallery, among others.
The activities will also promote locally produced products and connect the local market presence of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to individuals and institutional buyers.
The highlights of the festival include the ‘Guinakit’ Fluvial Parade [or the bancas – refers to Moro boats colorfully decorated with Maguindanaon inspired cloth in vivid colors of yellow, red, and green] at the mouth of Rio Grande de Mindanao, where a reenactment of the landing of Sharif Kabunsuan shall be done (on Dec. 19).
It will also feature authentic dishes and delicacies (with a twist) thru Kandulang at Grand Pagana on Dec. 19, and a fashion show called “Habing Bangsamoro” to showcase designs of famous designers from Maguindanao and Cotabato City on Dec. 17.
MTIT Director-General Rosslaini Alonto-Sinarimbo said the celebration will strictly follow the minimum health protocols.
“We will strictly observe minimum public health protocols. Primary concern natin ay iyong health in any celebration or gathering,” she said.
The ministry will be collaborating with Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH) and the Association of Tourism Officers of Maguindanao (ATOM). (Bangsamoro Information Office)
