Moro

Moro is a term with multiple related meanings. Historically, it was used by Spanish colonizers to designate the Muslim peoples of the southern Philippines, drawing on the Moor of Iberian and North African history. In the Philippines, Moro most often refers to the ethnolinguistic groups that practice Islam and live in Mindanao, the Sulu Archipelago, and parts of Palawan, including the Tausūg, Maranao, Maguindanao, Yakan, and Sama-Banguingui peoples. These groups share religious faith and distinct languages and cultures but are diverse in social organization and customs.

The term is ethnographic rather than strictly genetic or political. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Moro communities resisted colonial and later national authority in various conflicts. In modern governance, the Philippines created autonomous arrangements for Muslim-majority areas: the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) existed from 1990 until 2019, when it was replaced by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), granting broader self-government under a regional parliament and chief minister.

Culture and religion: Islam is central to Moro identity, practiced alongside rich cultural traditions such as Tausug and Maranao art, music (kulintang), dance, weaving, and boat-making (vinta). Languages include Tausug, Maranao, Maguindanaon, and Yakan, among others.

Other uses: Moro may also be used outside the Philippines to translate Moor, or occur as a surname in various countries. The term’s usage varies by historical and political context.