Sultanate of Maguindanao Hosts Historic 1st Royal Friendship Event in Cotabato City

The Sultanate of Maguindanao, in partnership with the non-profit organization We Care for Humanity (WCH), successfully convened the Sultanate of Maguindanao Royal Friendship Event on January 26, 2026, at the Em Manor Hotel and Convention Center. The gathering marked a significant milestone in fostering international unity, bringing together global dignitaries, royal families, and investors for a night dedicated to cultural exchange and economic partnership.

The evening commenced with a majestic Grand Entrance accompanied by traditional Kulintang music, welcoming the various Royal Houses, the Sultanate of Maguindanao Royal Family, and the international delegations. HM Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao, officially opened the proceedings with welcome remarks that emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration.

"We are not just opening our doors; we are opening our hearts," said Sultan Zulkarnain. "This gathering proves that the values of the Sultanate—honor, hospitality, and unity—resonate across oceans. We welcome our partners from the United States not merely as guests, but as family returning home."

Keynote addresses provided context and vision for the gathering. HRH Maha Putri Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, Founder of We Care for Humanity, presented the Mission Brief, highlighting her role in connecting the Sultanate to the global stage.

"My mission as 'The Traveling Queen' has always been to connect worlds," stated Maha Putri Mariam. "By bringing these global leaders to Maguindanao, we are breaking the silence of our history and building a future where tradition meets innovation. This event is proof that through true friendship, we can transform charity into sustainable development."

Datu Muba Mastura followed with a deep dive into the rich History of the Sultanate, grounding the guests in the region's heritage and legacy.

A focal point of the event was the dynamic Investment Forum, which featured project presentations from proponents across the region, including the Royal Houses of Biwang, Salamen, Datu Dikaya, Davao del Norte and Sur, Zamboanga del Sur, Buayan, Luzon, and Kabuntalan.

The forum generated significant interest from the international delegates, particularly the Fil-Am Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston. Led by Chairman Mr. Loloy Reyes and President Dr. Noemi Frias, the group expressed strong enthusiasm for the initiatives presented by the Royal Houses and the projects championed by the Royal Ladies, who also entertained guests with a cultural performance during the Royal Banquet.

The event also highlighted the presence of esteemed guests from the Las Vegas Delegation, including 

• Hon. Amie Belmonte, Phil. Honorary Consul General in Las Vegas

• Ms. Gloria T. Caoile, Founding Member of several Pan-Asian organizations in Nevada; Former White House Appointee

• Ms. Jacque De Joya, President, National Federation of Filipino American Association 

• Ms. Luz Sapin Micabalo, Chairman, Philippine American Charity Foundation (PACF)

• Mr. Leo Belmonte, Executive Director, NaFFAA Nevada

• Mr. Art de Joya, Board Member, NaFFAA Nevada

• Ms. Cynthia Deriquito, Board Member, NaFFAA Nevada

• Ms. Resty Lopez, Board Member, NaFFAA Nevada

• Melissa Topacio Long is an educator and entrepreneur

• Jeffrey Topacio Flores, Multi awarded stage actor 

The successful evening concluded with a commemorative group photo featuring all dignitaries, investors, and royal families, symbolizing the forged bonds and the promising future of these new partnerships.

The spirit of giving continued the following day as the delegations embarked on charitable missions. The Philippine American Charity Foundation (PACF) of the Las Vegas delegation distributed 200 "Bags of Hope" to underprivileged families in Cotabato City. Concurrently, We Care for Humanity (WCH) and the Sultanate of Maguindanao (SOM) traveled to the municipalities of Lebak and Kalamansig to distribute Global Santa gift bags to the local communities, ensuring the event’s impact reached those most in need.

A Royal Rendezvous: Magindanaw Monarchs Meet with Palu's Premier, Paving the Path for Partnership

(L-R) Grandfather of the King of Palu, HM Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, 
HM Mehdiantara Datupalinge and HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura

26th October, Palu, Indonesia- The Magindanaw monarchy, led by the esteemed HM Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI and the radiant HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, embarked on their final regal expedition to the illustrious Kingdom of Palu. Their host, the admirable His Majesty Mehdiantara Datupalinge, SH, was awarded lauded with the prestigious “Greatest Humanitarians of the World” Award from We Care for Humanity - a testament to his benevolent reign, a monumental highlight of this royal tour to Palu. 

Upon arrival, the Magindanaw royals were greeted with grandeur, enveloped in the unique customs and traditions of Palu. This cultural immersion commenced with a humble foot-washing ritual - an auspicious beginning to their palace adventure. A sumptuous feast awaited them on the palatial veranda, a gastronomic gateway to local cuisine, punctuated by the traditional practice of betel chewing. A royal exchange of traditional attire followed, with the King presenting the Sultan with a "siga'" headscarf, while the Queen was adorned in a vibrant red veil.

The royals then extensively explored the opulent "Sou Raja or Banua Oge" palace, a 19th-century traditional marvel, brimming with history. This grand tour was punctuated by the signing of a letter of intent, effectively forging an alliance between the two kingdoms. The day concluded with a lavish feast and an award ceremony, celebrating this cross-cultural collaboration.

Post royal engagement, the Magindanaw monarchs were honored by a courtesy visit from the dynamic Dra. Diah Agustiningsih, M.Pd., the head of Tourism for Central Sulawesi Province. 

In a heartfelt note of gratitude, the Royal Tour delegation appreciates the pivotal contributions of Datu Tommy Karwur (Organizer), Gusti Andika Yudhistira, B.Mgt., MM (Interpreter and Guide), and Jeremy Pratama Aroha Rantung (Umbrella Man) in orchestrating their memorable visit to Palu.

The Magindanaw royals departed Palu with hearts full of hope and determination to strengthen the bonds between their kingdoms. Their visit to Palu was not just a diplomatic mission but a journey of friendship and cultural appreciation, setting the stage for a new era of partnership and shared vision. 

The Sultanate of Gowa Forged an Alliance with the Sultanate of Magindanaw and We Care for Humanity

(L-R) HM Andi Kumala Idjo Malikusaid, HM Sultan Sulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, 
  HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura,  HM Andi Hikmawati Kumala

26th Oct 2024, Gowa Makassar- The fifth enchanting stop on the WCH-Magindanaw Royal Tour led to the illustrious Sultanate of Gowa. This official visit commenced with a journey to the royal abode of His Majesty Andi Kumala Idjo Karaeng Lembang Parang Sultan Malikusaid, the esteemed Sultan of Gowa ke XXXVIII. 

Upon their arrival, the Magindanaw royals; HM Sultan Sulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, the 26th Supreme Sultan of Mahindanaw and HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, the Maha Putri of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog and founder of We Care for Humanity, were greeted with a traditional welcome beneath an ornate royal canopy held by vigilant guards, accompanied by a mesmerizing warrior dance performed upon a crimson carpet. The air was filled with the harmonious melodies of traditional Gowa music, played by skilled musicians who seemed to weave magic with their instruments. 

Royals from both Sultanates mingled, exchanging stories and laughter, their conversations a testament to the vibrant cultural exchange that was unfolding. In her message, Queen Mariam highlighted that the purpose of the royal tour is to promote cultural exchange and establish meaningful, peaceful alliances between traditional kingdoms, as well as to advocate for peace and unity. She also noted that We Care for Humanity is always prepared to assist with social activities, particularly for the underprivileged individuals of the Sultanate of Gowa. 

A poignant highlight of this visit was the bestowal of the “Greatest Humanitarians of the World” award upon Sultan Idjo and his Queen, Andi Hikmawati Kumala. In a gesture of mutual respect, they honored the Sultan of Magindanaw with a traditional Gowa hat, while the Queen of Maharlika received a distinguished Gowa medal and badge. Thus, the two Sultanates fortified their bond of friendship and brotherhood with a heartfelt embrace and the signing of a Letter of Intent, paving the way for a Memorandum of Understanding. 

The morning event concluded with a lavish royal luncheon. The hospitality of Gowa was truly evident, thanks to the Gowa monarchs’ attentive care for their royal guests. The dining table was adorned with delectable dishes, accompanied by engaging discussions steeped in history.

The afternoon unfolded with an exhilarating exploration of the Gowa Sultanate's regal palace and museum, while the evening gracefully concluded with an exquisite dinner hosted by the Regional Secretary of South Sulawesi, the Honorable Dr. Jufri Rahman.

As the night drew to a close, the bonds between the two Sultanates had grown even stronger, fortified by mutual respect and shared aspirations. With promises of continued collaboration and support, the Magindanaw royals departed, leaving behind a legacy of goodwill and a promise of brighter days ahead.

For more photos and videos, visit here.

WCH, Sultanate of Magindanaw, and Kingdom of Sumedang Larang Officially Confirmed Brotherhood

(L-R) Maha Putri Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, Sri Radya H.R.I Lukman Soemadisoeria, 
Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI

22nd October, Sumedang Larang - Following a triumphant mission in Cirebon, the esteemed delegates of the Royal Tour, including HM Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, and Bai Salima Mastura, arrived at the Kingdom of Sumedang Larang, where they were met with a warm and gracious reception.

The royal festivities unfurled with the kingdom's traditional warrior dance, leading to a welcome address from His Majesty Sri Radya H.R.I Lukman Soemadisoeria, the reigning king of Sumedang Larang. He shared profound insights into the kingdom’s storied past and spoke of the seven ancient crowns of Asia that arose in the earliest epochs, spanning Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Brunei.

In her address, Queen Mariam, the Maha Putri of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog and the protagonist of the tour, elaborated on the Royal Tour's mission and unveiled plans for an upcoming WCH Royal Summit in Indonesia, set to grace the year 2025.

Sultan Zulkarnain expressed his vision for a robust partnership with the Kingdom of Sumedang Larang, while Bai Salima conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to both the King and Queen. 

A highlight of the event was the illustrious presentation of the “Greatest Humanitarians of the World” award to Rajah Lukman, recognizing his extraordinary impact and contributions to his community and humanity at large. This prestigious accolade is one of the flagship celebrations organized by We Care for Humanity, often held at the United Nations.

As a symbol of appreciation and brotherhood, Rajah Lucman bestowed medals and pins upon the three Filipino royals.

In a splendid display of hospitality, the king personally escorted the delegates through the palace and museum, culminating in a sumptuous feast.

The program gracefully concluded in the king's historical study room, where they signed a letter of intent, paving the way for a memorandum of understanding, a testament to their newfound alliance.

The signing of the letter of intent marked the beginning of a promising collaboration between the We Care for Humanity, the Sultanate of Magindanaw and the Kingdom of Sumedang Larang. This partnership is expected to foster cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and mutual support in humanitarian efforts. As the delegates departed, there was a sense of renewed hope and shared purpose among the gathered dignitaries.

The royal visit not only strengthened ties between the nations but also highlighted the rich cultural heritage and shared histories of Southeast Asia. It set a precedent for future engagements aimed at advancing peace, prosperity, and understanding across the region.

As the sun set over the ancient kingdom, the echoes of the day's celebrations lingered in the air, a reminder of the enduring bonds of friendship and the bright future ahead for these intertwined legacies.

Sultanate of Magindanaw Meets the Sultanate of Kecirebonan

(L-R) Maha Putri Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, Sultan Pangeran Abdulgani Natadiningrat, 
Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, Bai Salima Mastura

October 21st, Cirebon, Indonesia - The Royal Tour, initiated by the founder of We Care for Humanity and Maha Putri of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog, HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, has officially kicked off its journey at the Sultanate of Kecirebonan in the lively city of Cirebon, Indonesia. The royal entourage, which includes the distinguished HM Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, the 26th Supreme Sultan of Magindanaw, and Bai Salima Mastura, President of the Royal Ladies of Magindanaw, received an enthusiastic welcome from HM Sultan Pangeran Abdulgani Natadiningrat, the reigning Sultan of Kecirebonan. He graciously took the opportunity to share insights about the Sircila/Tarsila (Family Tree) of the Kecirebonan Sultanate.

A key part of the meeting's agenda was the presentation of the “Greatest Humanitarians of the World” award to Sultan Abdulgani, recognizing his remarkable influence and significant contributions to his community and humanity at large. This award is one of the flagship events organized by We Care for Humanity, typically held at the United Nations.

In a gesture of goodwill, Sultan Zulkarnain presented the Kecirebonan King with a book detailing the history of Magindanaw, while Sultan Abdulgani reciprocated by bestowing both Zulkarnain and Mariam with the Kecirobonan seal.

The visit marks a historic meeting of two significant Sultanates, fostering a spirit of unity and cultural exchange. The royals engaged in meaningful dialogues aimed at strengthening ties and exploring opportunities for collaboration in areas such as social activities, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. 

Sultan Zulkarnain expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships between the Sultanates to promote peace and mutual understanding.

Queen Mariam, known for her humanitarian efforts, took the opportunity to discuss initiatives that could benefit the local communities, particularly focusing on empowering women and supporting youth education programs. 

The royal visit not only strengthened political and cultural bonds but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations that promise to enrich both Sultanates. As the tour continues, the entourage looks forward to furthering these connections and exploring new avenues for cooperation and friendship.

WCH and Sultanate of Magindanaw Extended Humanitarian Aid to Markadz Al-arfadz Orphanage Center in the Spirit of Ramadan

COTABATO- Following the successful "Kanduli" (thanksgiving) event, which featured the Sultan of Magindanaw's “stepping on white dust ritual”, the We Care for Humanity (WCH) team and the Maguindanao Royal Family offered humanitarian assistance to the Markadz Al-arfadz Orphanage Center on March 11, 2024, in the spirit of Ramadan.

Since 2022, the U.S.-based non-profit organization WCH has been involved in charitable initiatives in Mindanao in partnership with the Sultanate of Magindanaw. 

Leading the delegation was HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, the WCH founder, who presented the organization's mission and dedication to aiding the orphanage.

His Majesty Zulkarnain Mastura VI, the 26th Supreme Sultan of Magindanaw, along with other cultural leaders:  Datu Habib Mastura- Secretary General of SKDOP, H. Datu Suod Ibrahim- Daram sa Magindanaw, Datu Jimmy Asim- Datu Mompong sa Kutawato sa Magindanaw, Datu Jordan Sinsuat- Datu Dikaya III, Datu Alee Uy- Marajalayla Salamen Magindanaw, Datu Zainudin Anan Kabulan- Datu Lawan na Datu Dikaya, HRH Febs Mastura Matalam, Royal Princess sa Magindanaw, HRH Jasma Mastura Karon- Rajah Bai sa Magindanaw, HRH Harjida Mastura Karon- Bailaga sa Magindanaw, Fatima Abdulrakman- Bailawan sa Dikaya and foreign guest, Dr. Abdalla Sharief- Datu Marajalaila sa UN, who is also the president of United Nations Correspondents Association of Vienna (UNCAV), shared uplifting messages during the visit.

Ustadz Al-faradh Markadz expressed gratitude for the support and congratulated the newly enthroned Sultan on his prosperous reign.

The collaboration between the We Care for Humanity and the Sultanate of Magindanaw has significantly benefited the Markadz Al-arfadz Orphanage Center. During this 2nd visit, essential supplies such as rice and groceries were provided to support the orphanage's needs during Ramadan.

Their generous humanitarian gestures have truly embodied the spirit of Ramadan, bringing hope and joy to the underprivileged children.

Sultanate of Magindanaw Appoints Envoy to the United Nations

COTABATO - On the 9th of March, the Sultanate of Magindanaw Mandanaue Darussalam, a historic kingdom in Mindanao, Philippines, convened a "Kanduli" ceremony to commemorate the enthronement of His Majesty Abdulaziz Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI as the new Sultan of Magindanaw, succeeding his late brother, Sultan Salem Mastura Kudarat V.

A key highlight of the event was the appointment of Dr. Abdalla Sharief, President of the United Nations Correspondents Association of Vienna (UNCAV), as the International Ambassador of Goodwill (Datu Marajalaila) to the United Nations and the Arab World. Dr. Sharief's primary role is to advocate for the Sultanate's mission and vision within these esteemed institutions.

This appointment was accompanied by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Sultanate and UNCAV, outlining their mutual duties and obligations for the benefit of the Sultanate of Magindanaw.

Sultan Zulkarnain emphasized that the title of Datu Marajalaila serves as an official designation aimed at broadening the Sultanate's reach and enhancing diplomatic relations with the global community. He underscored the significance of nurturing mutual comprehension and cooperation on an international level, outlining the Sultanate's dedication to peace, cultural interchange, and sustainable progress.

The Crown Prince of Magindanaw, HRH Datu Muamar Mastura, expressed his belief that UNCAV’s visit will not only bolster Magindanaw's reputation as a forward-thinking and peace-loving state but also pave the way for future collaborations and partnerships that will benefit the region as a whole.

Playing a pivotal role in this appointment and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, the Bai Mompong sa Magindanaw expressed her unwavering confidence in Sharief's capability to serve as the Sultanate's emissary to the United Nations. Citing their shared history and his adeptness in engaging with various Arab nations, she vouched for him as a seasoned diplomat with a profound understanding of international relations.

Abdalla Sharief, in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude for the honor bestowed upon him and affirmed his dedication to representing the Sultanate with integrity and diligence. He acknowledged the rich history and heritage of Magindanaw and pledged to work tirelessly towards promoting its interests and values on the world stage.

WCH and Sultanate of Maguindanao Distribute Food Aid to Hundreds of Families in Sultan Kudarat

 

Lebak, Sultan Kudarat- Amidst the vibrant landscapes of Lebak, in the province of Sultan Kudarat, another wondrous event unfolded with the help of We Care for Humanity and the Sultanate of Maguindanao. The GLOBAL SANTA MINDANAO FOOD DISTRIBUTION, 2023, an annual humanitarian endeavor, enfolded more than a hundred families in its warm embrace. The auspicious event was graced by the presence of His Majesty Sultan Salem Mastura Kudarat V, the 25th Supreme Sultan of Magindanaw, the Royal Ladies and Datus of the Sultanate. 

This initiative, held under the patronage of HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, founder of WCH and the Head of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog and the Royal Maharlika, reflects the unwavering commitment of the Sultanate to the well-being of its people in Mindanao, and of WCH to alleviate hunger.

The families that were present at the charity event were overjoyed to receive food and necessities that they otherwise might have gone without. It was heartwarming to see the smiles on the faces of the children as they received their gifts from the "Santa Claus" of humanity. 

"The event was not just about giving food, but also about spreading love and kindness in the community."- said the late Sultan of Maguindanao.