Tugaya

Nestled along the peaceful shores of Lake Lanao lies Tugaya, a small municipality in Lanao del Sur that roars with artistic energy and centuries-old traditions. Known as the Art Capital of the Maranao, this town isn’t just a destination – it’s a living museum where every chisel stroke, weave, and rhythm tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and fierce cultural pride.

Tugaya is famous for being the homeland of master artisans. Every household is a mini-workshop where okir woodcarving, brass casting, and kulintang music echo through the day. The intricate okir designs – floral and geometric patterns rooted in Maranao identity – are found in everything from furniture to the legendary torogan (royal houses).

Tugaya’s serene setting on Lake Lanao, the second-largest lake in the Philippines, offers stunning views perfect for eco-tourism. Early mornings reveal a dreamy reflection of the town’s lush greenery and traditional houses on the water. Visitors can ride a traditional baroto boat or simply breathe in the peace that surrounds this sacred lake.

The Torogan House is a must-see – a pre-Islamic Maranao ancestral home that showcases the height of traditional architecture. With wing-like panolong beams and carved interiors, it’s a majestic symbol of royalty and ancestral wisdom. Many homes in Tugaya still honor this design, making a walk around town feel like time travel.

Tugaya celebrates the Kapagonor Festival, a cultural feast of dance, music, and traditional arts that honors Maranao legacy. Expect vibrant garments, the mesmerizing sound of the kulintang ensemble, and tribal chants that stir the soul. It’s more than a celebration – it’s a revival of pride.

Hungry after all that art and culture? Tugaya has a unique flavor palette. Try the piaparan a manok (chicken cooked in coconut milk and turmeric), palapa (spicy condiment of sakurab), and randang, a Maranao take on the classic rendang. Every bite feels like a warm invitation to the Maranao kitchen.

The beating heart of Tugaya is its kulintang music, a centuries-old gong tradition passed through generations. Often played during weddings, ceremonies, or festivals, the music speaks a language of emotion, community, and identity. Musicians here are revered as culture bearers.

• Brassware production (gongs, betel nut boxes, ceremonial items)
• Okir woodcarving and furniture-making
• Inabel and malong weaving
• Cultural preservation
• Being a National Living Treasure community

Tugaya is a must-visit if you crave authentic Filipino-Muslim artistry, meaningful cultural immersion, and spiritual serenity.