Municipality of Taraka, Lanao del Sur

TARAKA got its name in perpetuation and in memory of a noble industrious strong man who lead the crusade of digging a big canal to let water upstream flow – traversing the area for the purpose of irrigating the vast land. The man had cleared and cultivated the land. He also provided water for his people to drink with and for their daily use. Local history revealed that long before the advent of Islam in Mindanao, these areas were covered by big trees and other wild plants. It was also known with rich stories of fairy tales and myths. During the introduction of Islam, in the province of Lanao del Sur, BAB-UL-RAHMAN (Gate of Mercy) Mosque was constructed in this municipality and became the first mosque erected in the province and the second mosque built in the Philippines which gave and enlightened Islamic education and religion in the province. Another peculiar quality of the Municipality of Taraka is that the Royal title known as Sultan sa Masiu can only be confirmed in this Municipality and if confirmed in other places other than in the Municipality of Taraka is deemed as baseless without royal recognition. During the commonwealth period under the district administration of the Americans, the late Sultan sa Masiu Ambor Radianggaus was the first appointed Mayor of Taraka, succeeded by Ina Ama Diangca, Gagil Maruhom, Kunug Bano, Sultan sa Dilabayan Banocag Guilla and Sultan Sumpingan Macasalong.