Maguindanao del Norte Province, Philippines

People of Maguindanao del Norte

• As of the 2020 Census, Maguindanao del Norte had a population of 926,037.
• In 2015, the area that now comprises Maguindanao del Norte was part of the undivided Maguindanao Province, which had a population of 1,173,933. The division into two provinces occurred in 2022.
• The province is home to the Maguindanaon people, an indigenous Moro ethnolinguistic group known for their Islamic scholarship, kulintang music, and rich oral traditions. Other communities include Iranun, Teduray, and Christian settlers.
• The major dialect spoken is Maguindanaon, with Iranun and Cebuano also present in some municipalities. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Maguindanao del Norte

• Maguindanao del Norte is located in central Mindanao, within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 7.133°N latitude and 124.267°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 3,988.82 square kilometers, comprising 12 municipalities. Its terrain includes river plains, marshlands, and coastal areas along the Moro Gulf. The climate is tropical, with a pronounced wet season and moderate temperatures year-round.
• The capital of Maguindanao del Norte is Datu Odin Sinsuat. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Dalican, which also houses regional offices and civic centers.
• Most people reach Maguindanao del Norte via land and air transport. From Cotabato City, travelers can access the province by road. The nearest airport is Awang Airport in Datu Odin Sinsuat, while the closest major seaport is Polloc Port in Parang.

Tourist Attractions of Maguindanao del Norte

• Masjid Dimaukom (Pink Mosque): Located in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, this mosque symbolizes peace and unity.
• Polloc Port and Bay: A scenic coastal area ideal for eco-tourism and maritime activities.
• Blue Lagoon of Datu Odin Sinsuat: A natural freshwater pool surrounded by lush vegetation.
• Inaul Festival: Celebrated every February, this festival showcases the traditional Maguindanaon woven fabric called “Inaul,” through fashion shows, cultural dances, and exhibits.

Economy of Maguindanao del Norte

• The province’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rice, corn, coconut, banana, and rubber. Irrigation from the Rio Grande de Mindanao supports farming.
  • Fisheries: Coastal and inland fishing contribute to food supply and trade.
  • Trade and commerce: Datu Odin Sinsuat and Parang serve as commercial hubs, with markets and cooperatives.
  • Crafts and textiles: Inaul weaving and brassware production support local artisans.
• As of 2024, Maguindanao del Norte is classified as a 2nd-class province. While specific GDP data is still being consolidated post-division, the province plays a vital role in BARMM’s agricultural and cultural economy.

Educational Institutions of Maguindanao del Norte

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Mindanao State University – Maguindanao Campus: Located in Datu Odin Sinsuat, offering programs in agriculture, education, and Islamic studies.
  • Cotabato State University: Though located in Cotabato City, it serves students from Maguindanao del Norte and offers programs in engineering, business, and health sciences.
  • Technical-vocational schools: TESDA-accredited centers provide training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public high schools: Each municipality has DepEd-supported secondary schools and senior high programs.

History of Maguindanao del Norte

• Maguindanao del Norte was officially created on September 18, 2022, following the ratification of Republic Act No. 11550, which divided the former Maguindanao Province into Maguindanao del Norte and Maguindanao del Sur. The division aimed to improve governance, service delivery, and regional development.
• The province traces its roots to the historic Sultanate of Maguindanao, which flourished from the 15th to the 19th century. The sultanate was a powerful Islamic kingdom that resisted Spanish colonization and maintained trade relations with neighboring regions and Muslim states.
• During the American and post-independence periods, Maguindanao was part of the larger Cotabato Province until it was established as a separate province in 1973. The 2022 division marked a new chapter in its administrative evolution.
• Today, Maguindanao del Norte is focused on peacebuilding, infrastructure development, and cultural preservation. It plays a key role in the Bangsamoro region’s transition to autonomy and inclusive governance.

Elected Officials of Maguindanao del Norte

• As of the 2025 elections, Maguindanao del Norte is led by:
  • Governor: Tucao O. Mastura
  • Vice Governor: Marshall I. Sinsuat
  • Representative – At-Large District: Bai Dimple Mastura
  • Board Members: As listed in the official Halalan 2025 results, representing municipalities such as Datu Odin Sinsuat, Parang, Sultan Kudarat, and others.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Maguindanao del Norte Election Results.

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