Author: UP Institute of Islamic Studies

National integration in the Philippines can be strengthened by understanding historical moments when cultural exchange transcended differences and fostered greater understanding among diverse communities. In a pluralistic society, cultivating mutual respect and a shared sense of national identity remains essential to promoting social cohesion and harmonious coexistence.

To contribute to this goal, the UP Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS) organized the lecture, “Historical Turning Points on the Road to National Integration,” featuring renowned anthropologist Dr. Eric S. Casiño as resource person. Held on June 15, 2026 at Room 300, Virata Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, the event formed part of the Institute’s continuing efforts to promote a deeper understanding of Philippine cultural diversity through its academic, research, and extension programs. 

In his opening remarks, Asst. Prof. Darwin J. Absari, UP IIS faculty member and Moro historian, emphasized the importance of cultural sharing in fostering national integration. He highlighted the Institute’s role in promoting a deeper appreciation of Moro history and culture while helping bridge religious and cultural divides. Asst. Prof. Absari also underscored the Institute’s commitment to preserving and advancing Muslim heritage through scholarship, dialogue, and collaboration with various institutions. This includes the Institute’s involvement in the ongoing project of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) on the Historical Research on the 13 Filipino Muslim ethnolinguistic groups, which serves as part of the reference base for the implementation of the Integrated History Act.

In his lecture, Dr. Casiño examined the historical challenges and responses to ethnic diversity in the Philippines, particularly in relation to Muslim communities and national integration efforts. He traced the evolution of government approaches to ethnic relations, from assimilation policies during the colonial period to more contemporary frameworks centered on cultural sharing and mutual understanding.

The discussion covered key developments in Philippine history, including American colonial policies, presidential directives concerning cultural communities, the establishment of institutions such as the Bureau of Non-Christian Tribes, the emergence of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and continuing efforts toward autonomy and cultural preservation. Dr. Casiño emphasized that sustainable national integration requires recognizing diversity as a source of strength rather than division.

A significant theme of the lecture was the concept of “mutual intelligence,” which Dr. Casiño described as the capacity of different communities to understand, appreciate, and learn from one another. He presented this as a guiding principle for addressing the continuing challenges of national integration and building stronger relationships among diverse cultural groups.

Dr. Casiño also highlighted how cultural sharing extends beyond governance and public policy into the realms of art and music. He cited the contributions of National Artist Abdulmari Asia Imao, whose works helped bring Muslim artistic traditions into the national consciousness and broaden public appreciation of Filipino cultural diversity. He likewise discussed the popularization of the song “Baleleng,” performed by Roel Cortez, as an example of how traditional Tausug and Sama-Bajau cultural expressions have reached wider Filipino audiences. Such artistic and cultural exchanges, he noted, contribute to a more inclusive and shared sense of national identity.

A question-and-answer session followed the lecture, providing participants an opportunity to engage with the themes discussed. Questions centered on the role of dialogue in fostering greater awareness and understanding among non-Muslim family members and communities, as well as the potential political and economic implications of the proposed Bacon Bill for Mindanao.

The lecture was organized in partnership with the NHCP and the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage–BARMM in support of Administrative Order No. 10, also known as “Constituting a National Steering Committee for the Commemoration of the 650th Anniversary of Philippine Muslim History and Heritage,” with the NHCP serving as Chairperson. 

It brought together participants from various universities, government agencies, research institutions, and professional organizations.