Maranao

Location: Lanao del Sur and parts of Lanao del Norte.

Culture: Famous for the okir (decorative motifs) and sarimanok (mythical bird) designs in their art. They also have a strong tradition of weaving and producing intricate brassware.

Economy: Agriculture, particularly rice, corn, and fishing.

Population: 863,659 (1994), 553,054 in Lanao del Sur province, the rest in Lanao del Norte.

Also Known As: Maranaw, Ranao, Lanon, Hiloona

Subsistence: Rice is cultivated dry in hilly regions and intensively wet in flood plains. Additionally, crops such as corn, sweet potatoes, coffee, cassava, and peanuts are grown. The people also engage in lake fishing.

The Maranao are renowned for their intricate weaving and exceptional wood and metal crafts.

The name "Maranao" translates to "People of the Lake," referring to their traditional homeland around Lake Lanao, situated on the Bukidnon-Lanao Plateau at an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet. They are one of the largest Islamic groups in the Philippines.