Our Mindanao is now online

Maiden issue Our Mindanao, a monthly magazine published by MNICC, is now out on print and online. The first issue features updates on the peace process between revolutionary movements in Mindanao.  I have a photo essay of the “Habal-Habal and Skylab” — an improvised motorcycle that can carry up to seven passengers and is a the most common mode of transportation in the hinterlands of Mindanao.

Hereis a piece from Mindanews editor Carolyn O. Arguillas:

This is Our Mindanao

In the national and international consciousness, Mindanao is no land of promise but of strife. It is not the island grouping of 25 provinces, 27 cities, some 400 towns and 10,000 barangays. It is not the home to some 22 million Moro, Lumad and settlers. It is not the area with diverse cultures and a glorious pre-colonial past.

In the national and international consciousness, Mindanao is “dangerous,” is “Abu Sayyaf,” a “war zone,” an islandof terrorists, kidnappers, rebels, bombers, etc…

Efforts, however, have been undertaken by various sectors to promote a better understanding of the island andits many issues.