By: Ayunan G. Gunting –
LANAO DEL SUR is one of the provinces in the Southern Philippines that boast of both natural and historical riches—its beauty, essence, and history preserved. The province is enlivened, more so, by the proud Maranaos who largely inhabit it. In Tamparan, one of the progressive municipalities in Lanao, much of the Maranao soul is carried. Some credit can be given to the leader behind Tamaparan’s burgeoning growth, the great grandfather of Mayor Mohammad Juhar Dimaporo Disomimba.
Commemorating the 62nd anniversary of Tamparan, its annual celebration will resume from September 22 to 28 at the Municipal Hall quadrangle and STDD Gymnasium.
Unlike past celebrations that often lasted for a month, the said event will only last for six days due to the pandemic and budget constraints. Despite such hurdles, nothing will stop Mayor Juhar from giving the people the celebration they deserve.
As promised, fellow Itamparanens who braved the surge of the pandemic will soon be able to showcase their local products, talents, and skills again as the highlight of the upcoming occasion.
Featuring the best of Tamparan, the local government prepares a food bazaar featuring sought-after Maranaw dainties and other homegrown treats that would run throughout the event.
As proof of their lasting devotion to their faith, the celebration will also hold a Reading Quran competition as a constant reminder of their spiritual roots while adding zest for the younger and more energetic generation participating in the event.
Complementing the cultural exhibit with a heartfelt final touch are the colorful spectacles and presentations made possible by the eclectic efforts of Itamparanuns to showcase how their native culture persevered through years of struggles.
HOW THE EVENT MADE POSSIBLE
Now that people are vaccinated, Mayor Juhar assures everyone that Araw ng Tamparan will be able to come through cautiously and in compliance with IATF protocols.
Aside from observing minimum health protocols, the government demands all players participating in the event be fully vaccinated. The Rural Health Unit will also establish a vaccination station during the festival to bring the vaccines closer to the citizens.
More than an annual celebration that monumentalizes their rich history and the legacy of his great grandfather, Tamparan’s first elected Mayor, he sees the event as a thanksgiving for the resilience of his people.
While the pandemic has taken a toll on the local businesses, Mayor Juhar feels inspired and grateful for the collective faith that resonated and helped everyone rise above the crisis.
Proving there is strength in numbers, the local government teamed up with Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. to realize the possibilities and promises of the celebration to its people.
A MESSAGE FOR THE PEOPLE
Prior to the event, Mayor Juhar released a short statement for Araw ng Tamparan as his love letter to his people.
“All thanks and gratitude is to ALLAH, the All-Mighty, for giving us this day to celebrate Araw ng Tamparan. These past few years have been a challenge for us: the Marawi siege [and] then came the pandemic. But let us be reminded that these are all trials from the All Mighty,” he said.
“After two years of not having this event on this day of celebration of Araw ng Tamparan, let’s not forget to show our gratitude to the All-Mighty, and to be united as one Tamparan for the pleasure of Allah. [Whether] in trials and days of celebration, we [should] always remember the All-Mighty ALLAH,” he added.
“I would also like to thank all our supporters for believing in me and my administration. We are looking forward to continuing our programs and activities and efforts to uplift the lives of the citizens of Tamparan and continue improving the infrastructures needed in our Municipality,” he assures all Itamparanens.
“Again, I encourage the people of Tampran on the importance of being one and united for the betterment of the future of our Municipality. With Solidarity amongst us, we can achieve many things,” he concluded.
