A Short History of Lanao and the Origin and Arts of their Traditional Weaponry

Abstract

This paper included a short documentation of Moro history, with emphasis on Lanao Military history, during the Spanish to American periods and the disarmament program during the American times. Also included was the enumeration of traditional weapons found among the Meranaw that were significantly valuable in the battles of Marawi in 1895 and up to the early years of the Americans in the country. Also discussed are the discovery and analysis of these traditional weapons' origin, design or features, and purpose. This work is a contribution to the tangible and intangible cultural heritage preservation in the province of Lanao, so that the next generation would be given more information about these cultural artifacts found in museums and in their families as heirlooms. Findings showed that the Meranaw traditional weaponry have Malay origins and show much Hindu and Chinese influences. These can explain what enabled Moro's resistance to Spanish conquest. The Moros had arms which enable them to meet enemies on equal grounds. It can be said that the Meranaws were the most well-armed group among the Moros in the 19th century because having weapons is a traditional way of life and politics.