ILIGAN CITY (PIA)-To further promote the colorful Maranao tradition and culture, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte  (PGLDN) broke ground on Friday, January 14, for the construction of a Torogan house in the municipality of Nunungan.

The capsule laying held in Brgy. Pantar, the same location of Nunungan Lake, was led by Governor Imelda "Angging" Quibranza-Dimaporo and Nunungan mayor Marcos Mamay. 

"Today, I am delighted that we have this opportunity to reminisce our colorful tradition and uphold our rich culture," said Dimaporo who emphasized that Torogan which is the core of Maranao's traditional customs, arts, and culture was gradually forgotten by fellow Maranao people. She said Torogan, in the past, symbolizes the power of the Sultanate of Lanao. 

The P10 million Torogan project is also eyed to boost the influx of tourists in Nunungan Lake and Mt. Inayawan Range National Park that was earlier nominated as an ASEAN Heritage Park. 

Aside from the Torogan, a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a multi-purpose building was also held in the same barangay. Dimaporo said the Torogan project is funded by the provincial government under its 2021 budget while the multi-purpose building is funded by Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri.

Prior to the groundbreaking rites, a greening (tree planting) activity was conducted in the area to promote the protection of Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park.

"Nunungan is positioned as the province's premier ecotourism destination and the proposed projects embody the strong connection between our cultural heritage and the natural environment," the governor said.

The PGLDN has been working hand in hand with the municipal government of Nunungan  not just in ensuring peace and stability in the municipality but also in protecting its natural resources especially in fighting illegal logging activities. (APB/PIA Lanao del Norte)