jolo

Jolo, Sulu: Pangalay Dances by NDJC Ingat Kapandayan Artist Center

Posted on November 11, 2014

Notre Dame of Jolo College is the best place in Sulu province to watch pangalay, a traditional dance of the Tausug people. At this Roman Catholic academic institution established in 1954, one can arrange cultural performances by the Ingat Kapandayan Artist Center, the school-based theater group that promotes peace and cultural understanding though performing arts. During our visit, a group of student dancers performed four variations of the pangalay. This exotic and mesmerizing dance predates the arrival of Islam in Sulu. It is rooted inRead More→

Jolo, Sulu: An Inside Look at Masjid Tulay (Tulay Mosque)

Posted on November 10, 2014

During my visit to Sulu with fellow travel blogger Gay Mitra-Emami of www.pinaytraveljunkie.com, we had the privilege of touring Masjid Tulay (Tulay Central Mosque) in Jolo town. Generally not open to non-Muslims, we had special permission to explore the inside of the mosque thanks to our military guide who befriended the local imam.  The most prominent landmark in Jolo town – whether viewed from the plane or the boat to Marungas Island – this grand place of worship pierces a skyline ofRead More→