Development, ethnicity, and religion in Mindanao

Abstract

Mindanao- the Fhilippines' second biggest island is both a land of promise and mystery. It is a home to the Maranaos, Maguindanaos, Tausugs, Manaobos, Subanons, and other tribal groups as well as the Christianized Fili- pinos coming from Luzon and the Visayas. There is a song which is often sung In conferences and seminars which captures Mindanao's promise and mystery in few words. The song begins with a word of welcome to Mindanao - the land of promise, the land of wealth: Cotabato Frovinces - its fertile plains which are fast becoming the rice granary of the Philippines; Agusan Frovinces - its rich forests now famous for its timber and wood industries; Surigao Frovinces - its rich mine deposits, especially gold, silver, and nickel; Davao and Bukidnon Frovinces and South Cotabato - their fruit plantations, especially pineapples, bananas, etc; Misamis Provinces - its coco industry; Zamboanga, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi Provinces - its rich fishing ground; etc. etc.