Mindanaos

Mindanaos is the plural term used to refer to residents of Mindanao, the southernmost major island of the Philippines. In English-language writing the term can appear as Mindanaos, though more common local terms include Mindanawon, used by many inhabitants to express belonging to Mindanao. The term encompasses a diverse population drawn from Moro communities, indigenous Lumad groups, and Christian settlers, as well as migrants from other parts of the country.

Mindanao occupies the southern portion of the Philippine archipelago and includes varied terrain such as volcanic peaks, uplands, and coastal lowlands. The island hosts several major cities, among them Davao City, Zamboanga City, General Santos, and Cagayan de Oro, and supports a wide range of languages including Cebuano, Maguindanaon, Maranao, Tausug, Hiligaynon, and Filipino/English. Its cultural landscape reflects centuries of interaction among Muslim sultanates, Christianized towns, and indigenous communities, with rich traditions in music, crafts, and cuisine.

Politically, Mindanao has a long history of autonomous and local governance. In the late 20th century, the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao was established and later reorganized as the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2019, aiming to provide self-governance for Muslim-majority areas. The island has also experienced periods of conflict and peacebuilding, development initiatives, and ongoing efforts to address economic disparities and insurgent activity while promoting inter-communal dialogue and inclusive growth.