This journal concentrates on the Maranao people–their struggles, their customs, their beliefs, and their “cousins,” the Iranuns. Four of the contributors in this journal are themselves Maranao and the fifth is an American who lived among the Muslims. First, Tawagon writes on “Lake Lanao, National Power Corporation and the People of the Lake,” which focuses on the detrimental effects of the hydroelectric projects pursued by the government in Lake Lanao as a response to the energy crisis of the 1970s. Considered as nature’s gift, Lake Lanao is the ecological source and progress for the Maranaos, and its exploitation would only cause the socioeconomic dislocation of people and an overall ecological imbalance. Moreover, the profiteering done in Lake Lanao only benefits rich multinational corporations at the expense of farmers, fishermen, and the Muslims. Second, Matuan writes on “Kapamitoon: Maranao Astrology and Farming Activities,” which revolves around Maranao customs and traditions regarding rice planting and harvesting. Beyond being an important means of livelihood, agriculture has become part of the culture of the Maranaos. One of the practices they pursue is Kapamitoon, which helps them determine their calendar for agricultural activities through observing the movements of constellations and other celestial bodies which inform them of the variations in wind and rainfall in Lanao del Sur. Third, Dumarpa writes on “Tuberculosis Among Maranaos: Medicine and Folk Medicine,” which centers around how health and beliefs are intertwined for the Maranaos. Tuberculosis was a health crisis that wreaked havoc in the entire world, the Maranaos no less. Maranaos coped with the disease with the help of their traditional medical practices. From the magical notions of some pamomolongs to the widespread use of herbal medicines, these practices vary–and it goes to show how Maranao traditions are part of every aspect of their lives. Fourth, Pumbaya writes on “Kanggogorowa: A Maranao Game of Courtship,” which briefly describes the Kanggogorowa, a game organized by the elders of the community as an act of Maranao courtship. The writer details every step of what is regarded today as an old practice. Lastly, Fleischman writes on “Are the Iranuns in Sabah?,” which reports on the lives and stories of the Iranuns–their economic opportunities, relationships, settlement patterns, and their struggles.

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