Having been to the Islamic City of Marawi brings you closer to the grand Ranaw, the beauteous lake that the Maranao, as a people’s name is derived. Maranao, as a tribe is derived from the English word “people of the lake” and lake is called ranaw or ranao.
One fine day, in the Municipality of Tugaya as well as in our visit to the Torogans in Tuca, in Marawi City, I have felt Ranaw in all her glory, seen her and captured by her. My heart jumps for happiness when I saw from a distance, children swimming one humid afternoon and which waters of Ranaw is inviting.
Historically, the Spaniards in 1689 explored the rest of Ranaw to be surprised by a well-established settlement called Dansalan at the northern end of Ranaw. Since then and in 1907, Dansalan becomes a Municipality, which became now, the Islamic City of Marawi.
What made Ranaw grand is it awe-inspiring and expansive presence in the entire Lanao region. The origins of Ranaw was a result of a tectonic movements from a volcanic activity. Grand and regal, Ranaw forever becomes a shining cool and inviting waters which gained for myself trust, confidence and calmness amidst the chaotic pictures of what Ranaw truly was and is.
