Moro people

The Moro people, also known as the Bangsamoro, are a collection of 13 Muslim-majority ethnolinguistic groups. These groups are native to the regions of Mindanao, Sulu, and Palawan in the Philippines. They represent the largest non-Christian population in the country. According to the 2020 census by the Philippine Statistics Authority, they comprise approximately 6.5% of the total Philippine population. This equals about 7.1 million people. Most Moros follow Sunni Islam, which deeply influences their social structures and daily customs.

Historically, the Moro people lived under various independent local states. These included the Sultanate of Sulu, the Sultanate of Maguindanao, the Sultanate of Buayan, and a confederation of sultanates in Lanao. These states remained de facto independent for a long time. They successfully withstood repeated Spanish invasions for many years. This independence lasted until the Moro rebellion occurred in the early 20th century. During this era, leaders like Sultans held significant political and religious authority.

The term "Moro" has a complex history rooted in external labels. It is a cognate of the English word "Moors." The word originates from "Mauru," a Latin term for inhabitants of ancient Mauretania in northwest Africa. When Spanish explorers arrived in the Philippine archipelago, they applied this term to the local Muslim communities. While some modern Muslim communities object to the term due to its colonial origins, it has been adopted by various groups. For example, separatist organizations used it in names like the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). The newer term "Bangsamoro" combines the Malay word "bangsa," meaning nation, with "Moro."

Following Philippine independence in 1946, the Moro people continued to struggle for self-determination. This struggle was directed against a predominantly Christian Philippine government. This period resulted in a decades-long insurgency involving armed rebel groups. Two of the most prominent groups were the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). These groups fought against the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The conflict led to significant social and political changes in the southern islands.

Political efforts to resolve these conflicts have seen different stages of success. The Constitution of the Philippines guarantees an autonomous region for the Moro people. However, the initial establishment of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) did not satisfy all rebel groups. In 2018, successful peace talks between the government and the MILF led to a major shift. This resulted in the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). This new entity provides greater political autonomy and powers to the region.

Moro culture is characterized by distinct religious and social practices. As followers of Islam, many adhere to specific laws regarding diet and behavior. For instance, alcohol consumption is avoided, and pork is not permissible. Religious duties include fasting during Ramadan, providing charity, and performing the Hajj pilgrimage. Traditional clothing also plays a role in identity. Women may wear a veil called a tudong, while men might wear skull caps known as a songkok or taqiyah.

Musical traditions are another vital part of the Moro heritage. One notable instrument is the kulintang, which is a set of gongs made from bronze or brass. This instrument is found throughout the southern Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. The music features different styles, such as the Binalig, Tagonggo, and Kapanirong. These sounds are deeply connected to the various ethnolinguistic groups, such as the Maranao and Tausūg. Today, Moro communities are found in many urban centers like Manila, Cebu, and Davao, as well as in neighboring countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.