The southernmost region of the Republic of the Philippines,
located in the heart of the Asia-Pacific region, Mindanao has often been
referred to as the land of opportunity. With a population of over 16 million
people, it is home to a quarter of the country's total population. Mindanao's
many natural attractions, largely unspoiled natural resources, long coastline,
rich flora and fauna, cultural diversity, and colorful ethnic festivals, should
make it one of the most exciting tourist destinations and provide a vast
potential for ecotourism projects. Yet, Mindanao has made it in the news on an
international scale, but negative light.
On the morning of the height of People Power 2, Ms Tingting
Cojuangco--shared with us her experiences and extensive 
information on the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Ms
Cojuangco belongs to a political
family that includes former president Corazon C Aquino. She was governor of the
province of Tarlac and is a respected columnist of the Philippine Daily
Inquirer. Our very own Lourdes Mastura contributed
some interesting insights. Aside from the visual feast of part of Ms
Cojuangco's collection, we were also treated to music and dance performed by 3
people from Mindanao (see top photo).
