Basic Facts

Islam was introduced to Mindanao when Shariff Makhdum came to the Sulu archipelago sometime in 1310. Later in the same century, Shariff Kabunsuan brought the religion to greater Cotabato and Lanao. The introduction of Islam by these Arab missionaries led to the formation of Islamic communities throughout Mindanao. Eventually, the Islamic Sultanate under one Supreme Council united the Mindanao mainland with its neighboring islands. The majority of Mindanao's population converted to Islam, and co-existed peacefully, socially, economically, politically, and culturally with their highlander neighbors.

During the 20th century, the Philippine government opened Mindanao - dubbed as the "Land of Promise" - to immigrants from the Visayas and Luzon, who were welcomed to share the fruit of Mindanao's vast and rich natural resources. The influx of settlers created a diverse land where ethnicity, culture, traditions and beliefs blended harmoniously.

However, a gradual erosion of relationships eventually led to protest and revolt against the government. In February 1973, the problem escalated into armed conflict between the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Philippine Armed Forces. This conflict continued sporadically for more than two decades.

On September 2, 1996, the MNLF and the Philippine Government signed an internationally lauded peace agreement that has led to a new struggle - this time for Muslim Mindanao's economic growth. While the peace process continues to work towards resolving outstanding issues, the intent of all parties is to achieve a permanent just and honorable peace and accelerated development for all the peoples in the southern Philippines - Muslims, Christians, and indigenous tribal groups.

Also available at http://www.mindanao.org/