Lanao del Sur Province, Philippines

People of Lanao del Sur

• As of the 2020 Census, Lanao del Sur had a population of 1,195,518.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 1,045,429, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 14.4% over five years.
• Lanao del Sur is the ancestral homeland of the Maranao people, whose name means “people of the lake.” They are known for their rich Islamic traditions, torogan architecture, okir wood carving, and epic literature such as the Darangen.
• The major dialect spoken is Maranao, with Cebuano and Tagalog also present due to migration and trade. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration across the province.

Location of Lanao del Sur

• Lanao del Sur is located in the western part of Mindanao, within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 8.00°N latitude and 124.17°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 15,055.51 square kilometers, comprising 39 municipalities and 1 component city. Its terrain includes Lake Lanao, the second largest lake in the Philippines, surrounded by forested mountains and fertile plains. The climate is tropical, with a pronounced wet season and moderate temperatures year-round.
• The capital of Lanao del Sur is Marawi City. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Bangon, Marawi City.
• Most people reach Lanao del Sur via land transport. From Cagayan de Oro or Iligan City, travelers take buses or vans to Marawi. The nearest airport is Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro, while the closest major seaport is the Port of Iligan, approximately 2–3 hours away by road.

Tourist Attractions of Lanao del Sur

• Lake Lanao: A sacred body of water central to Maranao culture and hydroelectric power generation.
• Torogan Houses: Traditional royal dwellings of Maranao sultans, featuring intricate okir carvings and panolong beams.
• Mindanao State University (MSU) Campus: A scenic and historic academic center overlooking Lake Lanao.
• Maulid Festival: Celebrated annually to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad, featuring Qur’anic recitations, cultural performances, and Islamic lectures.

Economy of Lanao del Sur

• Lanao del Sur’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, banana, coconut, and coffee. Lake Lanao supports inland fisheries.
  • Trade and commerce: Marawi and nearby towns serve as commercial hubs for halal goods, textiles, and crafts.
  • Education and services: Institutions like MSU contribute to employment and regional development.
  • Tourism and crafts: Okir woodwork, brassware, and cultural tourism support local livelihoods.
• In 2023, Lanao del Sur posted the highest GDP growth rate in BARMM at 5.02%, surpassing the regional average of 4.3%. This reflects a strong recovery and expansion in agriculture, services, and infrastructure.

Educational Institutions of Lanao del Sur

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Mindanao State University – Main Campus: Located in Marawi City, MSU offers programs in Islamic studies, engineering, law, agriculture, and liberal arts. It is a premier institution in Mindanao and included under the Free Tuition Law.
  • Adiong Memorial State College: Located in Ditsaan-Ramain, offering programs in education, agriculture, and technology.
  • Jamiatu Muslim Mindanao: A private Islamic university offering Qur’anic studies, Arabic language, and teacher training.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades across the province.

History of Lanao del Sur

• Lanao del Sur traces its roots to the Pat a Pangampong sa Ranao, the four principalities of the Maranao Sultanate: Masiu, Unayan, Balo-i, and Bayabao. These governed independently through the unwritten code of Igma Ago Taritib (Order and Consensus), a system of customary law and governance.
• During the Spanish colonial period, the Maranao fiercely resisted foreign intrusion, joining forces with the Tausug and Maguindanao in the Moro Wars. The battles of Bayang, Ganassi, and Tugaya are remembered as symbols of Maranao valor and sovereignty.
• Lanao del Sur was officially created on May 22, 1959 through Republic Act No. 2228, which divided the old Lanao Province into Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur. Marawi was designated as the capital, and the province became a stronghold of Islamic education and cultural preservation.
• Today, Lanao del Sur is a vital part of BARMM, balancing tradition and development. It continues to advocate for peace, autonomy, and inclusive growth rooted in Maranao heritage and Islamic values.

Elected Officials of Lanao del Sur

• As of the 2025 elections, Lanao del Sur is led by:
  • Governor: Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr. (Lakas–CMD)
  • Vice Governor: Mohammad Khalid R. Adiong (Lakas–CMD)
  • Representative – 1st District: Zia Alonto Adiong
  • Representative – 2nd District: Yasser Balindong
  • Board Members: As listed in the official Halalan 2025 results, including representatives from Marawi and the 39 municipalities.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Lanao del Sur Election Results.

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