KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Bangsamoro Chief Minister Abdulraof “Sammy Gambar” Macacua called for stronger unity, deeper collaboration, and lasting partnerships among Mindanao communities especially South Cotabato.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and South Cotabato, noting that closer cooperation can open more opportunities in governance, economic development, tourism, cultural exchange, and peacebuilding initiatives.
“May we continue to weave stronger partnerships between South Cotabato and the Bangsamoro so that future generations will inherit not only a rich cultural heritage but also a future filled with opportunity, harmony, and lasting peace.”
He expressed optimism that the enduring partnership between South Cotabato and the Bangsamoro government would continue to create meaningful opportunities for future generations while safeguarding the shared cultural identity of the people of Mindanao.
Speaking before provincial officials, local chief executives, cultural leaders, indigenous peoples, and thousands of festival participants during the anniversary program of the 60th Foundation Anniversary and 27th Tnalak Festival, Chief Minister Macacua emphasized the same spirit of solidarity continues to guide the Bangsamoro Government in its pursuit of inclusive development, sustainable peace, and stronger regional cooperation throughout Mindanao.
According to Macacua, meaningful progress can only be achieved through collaboration among neighboring provinces, local governments, indigenous cultural communities, and all sectors of society.
“That is also the story of South Cotabato. That is the story we aspire to write across Mindanao,” he added.
Macacua said the T’nalak Festival represents more than a celebration of culture—it is a powerful reminder that diversity becomes a source of strength when people work together toward a common purpose.
Drawing inspiration from the T’nalak, the handwoven masterpiece crafted by the Tboli people, Macacua said each thread symbolizes the unique identities, traditions, and aspirations of the communities across Mindanao.
“The T’nalak is more than a beautiful cloth. It tells a timeless story. One thread alone cannot create a masterpiece. But when different threads are carefully woven together, they become something strong, meaningful, and enduring,” Macacua said.
He noted that the symbolism of the T’nalak reflects the very foundation of nation-building—where people from different cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds unite to create resilient and progressive communities.
Macacua further emphasized that in an increasingly divided world, celebrations such as the T’nalak Festival remind people that cultural diversity should never be viewed as a barrier but as a valuable strength that unites communities and enriches society.
“In a time when the world often focuses on what divides us, this festival reminds us that our diversity is our greatest strength.”
He commended the Provincial Government of South Cotabato for preserving the province’s rich multicultural heritage while fostering harmony among its diverse ethnolinguistic groups, making the province a model of peaceful coexistence in Mindanao.
The T’nalak Festival, one of South Cotabato’s premier cultural celebrations, honors the artistry and traditions of the Tboli people while showcasing the province’s cultural diversity through performances, exhibitions, indigenous traditions, and community festivities. This year’s celebration also marks the province’s 60th Foundation Anniversary, bringing together leaders, cultural advocates, and stakeholders from across Mindanao in a shared celebration of heritage, unity, and inclusive progress.
