I hope you are going to like my blogs. I am W.C.H. Poet and publisher of W. C. H. Books available worldwide. I will be blogging my poetry some that are from W. C. H Books that were launched at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and United Nations Geneva. They are a record of awardees and events from 2015 to date. Have a good day my friends. Peace and love. Maureen Brindle.
Despite numerous aspirants vying for the title of Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao, the position has already been rightfully claimed by His Majesty Sultan Abdulaziz Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI. He wasn’t only appointed as the legitimate successor by the late Sultan Salem but was also the popular choice of the Maguindanao people and hails from an unbroken line of Sultans since Sultan Muhammad Dipatuan Kudarat who reigned the Sultanate of Maguindanao from 1625 to 1671.
The enthronement took place last 14th of January during the Taazi’ah/Kanduli for the late 25th Supreme Sultan, Abdulaziz Guiwan Salem Mastura Kudarat V. Flooded by thousands of people, the auspicious event was attended by big personalities from local and abroad including traditional leaders, politicians, religious leaders, tribal groups, representatives from 26 principalities of Mindanao: Municipalities of Palembang, Kalamansig, Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat, Matanog, Sultan Mastura, Maitum, Kiamba, Maasin, Kabacan, Pikit, Pagalungan, Datu Osin Sinsuat, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Dau Abdullah Sangki, Polomok, Isulan, Parang, SKP, Lebak, Kalamnsig and Labangan; Cities of Cotabato, General Santos and Marbel; and officers and men of the 6th infantry Division (KAMPILAN) PA AFP, Central Cotabato.
The Sultanate’s Cabinet members have recently revealed plans for two additional coronation ceremonies this year. The second ceremony will take place in Cotabato City on March 9th, extending its reach to the entire Mindanao region. The third and most significant coronation is scheduled to occur in October at theWCH Royal Summitin Manila. This event will host a multitude of international monarchs, dignitaries, and United Nations representatives, rendering it an extraordinary and memorable occasion.
The Crown Prince of Maguindanao, Datu Muamar (Mama) Mastura, has disclosed the order of succession of the Sultanate, as decreed by their late father, Sultan Guiwan Mastura Kudarat IV.“According to the last testament, after Sultan Salem, Datu Nain is to take over as the Sultanate's leader, thereby ensuring the unbroken tradition of succession. This dying wish of my brother, Sultan Salem has been upheld, and Datu Nain is the rightful heir to the throne.” His Royal Highness Datu Mama added, “We have recently discovered that a number of individuals, including some of our own relatives who have benefited from our father's kindness and compassion, are plotting to usurp the throne from us. Despite our family's relentless efforts to fortify the Sultanate, these individuals are driven by a desire for greater power and influence. Nonetheless, the truth about their intentions is widely known throughout Mindanao.”
Renowned humanitarian and founder of international charity organization- We Care for Humanity (WCH),Queen Mariam Torres Mastura vowed to help ensure that the Sultanate emerges stronger than ever before. “As the crowned Bai Mompong sa Magindanaw, it is my duty to support my brother, the Supreme Sultan, in preserving the Sultanate and its goals. And I will not rest until I bring His Majesty to the United Nations to represent the interests of the Sultanate, and that the entire world recognizes him as the true Sultan of Maguindanao!”- said the crowned Queen of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog.
A few of hundreds of congratulatory messages from International Dignitaries and Monarchs:
•DR. ABDALLAH SHARIF, President of United Nations Communications Association of Vienna (UNCAV)- “On behalf of the UNCAV and other esteemed peace organizations in Austria, I extend my warmest greetings to my noble brother, Sultan Zulkarnian, on his coronation as the illustrious Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao. May the winds of fortune guide you towards success and prosperity, and may you enjoy robust health to benefit your kingdom.”
•H.E. IVO JOSIPOVIC, 3rd President of Croatia (2010-2015)- “I am delighted to send my biggest congratulations to the new Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao, Philippines. I wish for His Majesty Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI to have a long and vibrant reign as the 26th Sultan of Maguindanao, and may the Sultanate become one of the most revered Kingdoms in the world!”
•HRH ISABARUULI ISABARONGO MWATYANSOZI MWOGEZI BUTAMANYA, King of Buruuli Kingdom & Chairperson Uganda Kings and Cultural Leaders Forum- “I extend my sincerest congratulations to His Majesty Sultan Abdulaziz Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI on his ascension to the 26th Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao. I and the Kings I head in Uganda are willing to work with you under WE CARE FOR HUMANITY”.
•HRM DR. NANA AKOMANYI ESSANDOH V, Sovereign Ruler of the Kingdom of Gomoah, Ghana
“Royalty is a blessing.
Royalty is creativity.
Royalty is culture.
Royalty is upliftment.
Royalty is God given.
Royalty is attraction.
Royalty is Grace from God.
You are blessed to be the 26th Sultan.
May God see you through successfully.
CONGRATULATIONS MY BROTHER!"
•H.E. ROSALIA ARTEAGA SERRANO, Former President of Ecuador- “My warmest congratulations go out to Sultan Abdulaziz Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, the new Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao, on his enthronement. He is a symbol of bravery and greatness, and perfectly suited to lead a sultanate with a rich history”.
•H.E. FILIP VUJANOVIC, Former President of Montenegro- “I am pleased to express my sincere congratulations and warm wishes to the new Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao, Philippines. I wish for His Majesty Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI to have a long and prosperous reign as the 26th Sultan of Maguindanao, and may the Sultanate become one of the most respected Kingdoms in the world”
About Sultan Zulkarnain:
Sultan Zulkarnain a.k.a. Datu Nain is a highly esteemed figure in Mindanao, the Philippines' oldest and most important Muslim state. He Graduated from Manuel L. Quezon University, Manila with degree in Bachelor of Science and Commerce. Before his coronation, he served as the president of the Sultan Kudarat Descendants Organization of the Philippines (SKDOP), a non-profit organization which main mission is to unite the country’s traditional leaders and to preserve the culture and heritage of the Royal Sultanate of Maguindanao Mandanaue Darussalam. His leadership was instrumental in preserving the region's diverse culture and traditions.
Royal Lineage:
Datu Nain is the 6th child of the late Sultan Abdulaziz "Datu Guiwan" Mastura Kudarat IV. He is the direct descendant of SULTAN ISKANDER HIJABAN MASTURA KUDARAT III who reigned in 1925 to 1930. A legitimate successor to the throne as "Sultan of Magindanaw" hailing from the Royal UNBROKEN LINEAGE of the late SULTAN ALMANZA ZULKARNAIN, 8 months on the throne in year 1830. His son, the Crown Prince- RAJA TUA who was supposed to be the successor to the crown died ahead of his father, therefore, his son SULTAN JAMALOL AZAM UNTONG QUDRATULA II assumed the post and reigned from 1830- 1854. Next in line, his cousin SULTAN MAKAKUA in 1854 to 1884, followed by SULTAN PABLO in 1884 to1895. Next to him was SULTAN MANGIGIN in1896- 1924. There after was the son of SULTAN JAMALOL UNTONG QUDRATULAH II, none other than SULTAN ISKANDER HIJABAN MASTURA KUDARAT III from 1925 to1930. After the death of Sultan Hijaban, his sister, the REGENT QUEEN RAJA PUTRI appointed Mohamad Tato Kalog as the caretaker to the throne from1933-1992. After the death of Ismael Kalog, the son of Sultan Hijaban- ABDULAZIZ DATU GUIWAN MASTURA KUDARAT IV was enthroned as SULTAN OF MAGINDANAW from1993 to 2010. He relinquished his crown to his son, SULTAN ABDULAZIZ SALEM MASTURA KUDARAT V in 2010. He reigned until his death in Jan 4, 2024. His brother, ZULKARNAIN MASTURA KUDARAT VI was declared the 26th Supreme Sultan of Magindanaw by the Executive Staff Council of Elders of the Sultanate of Magindanaw during the burial at the ancestral residence of SULTAN DATU GUIWAN MASTURA KUDARAT IV at Compound Keti, Poloy, Lebak Sultan Kudarat Province.
The recent passing of Sultan Salem has left a deep void in the hearts of the people of Maguindanao. He dedicated his life to the betterment of the Sultanate and his contributions will always be remembered.
With the Queen's visit, she not only honors his memory but also shows her support and solidarity to the newly enthroned Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao, His Majesty Sultan Abdulaziz Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, the youngest brother in the family.
“We bid farewell to a remarkable leader, a brave Sultan, and a genuine Royal Man of Asia. He was a beloved and caring father, brother, husband, and friend. Personally, I have lost a trusted mentor and brother. However, the Sultan's memory will never fade, his remarkable legacy will endure forever! As a family, we vow to ensure that the Sultanate of Maguindanao will emerge stronger than ever before.
The Sultan's leadership was marked by his unwavering commitment to his people, his dedication to progress and development, and his tireless efforts to promote peace and stability in the region. He was a true visionary, always pushing the boundaries and inspiring those around him to aim higher and achieve more.
Under his guidance, the Sultanate of Maguindanao flourished, with significant advancements made in the areas of peace and leadership. His legacy will be remembered not only for these achievements, but also for the kindness and compassion he showed to all those he encountered.
As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his life and the immense impact he had on our community. We will continue to honor his memory by carrying forward his vision and working tirelessly to create a brighter future for all who call the Sultanate of Maguindanao home.”, a heartfelt eulogy from the Queen, the Bai Mompong sa Magindanaw.
Many monarchs and dignitaries shared their deepest sympathies with the Sultan. Some of those who offered their condolences include:
•HRM Nana Akomanyi Essandoh V, Sovereign Ruler of the Kingdom of Gomoah, Ghana
•HRH King Constantine Mwogezi Butamanya, King of Buruuli Kingdom, Uganda
•HRM Nana Attah Damoah II, King of the Kingdom of Tetrim, Ghana
•HRH King Robert Obara Nahama III, King of Bugwe Kingdom, Uganda
•HRH King Togbe Tete Gagnon Dumashie, King of Badougbe Village, Togo
•H.E. Ivo Josipovich, the 3rd President of Croatia
•H.E. Rosalia Arteaga Serrano, Former President of Ecuador
•H.E. Filip Vujanovic, the 3rd President of Montenegro
•Dr. Abdallah Sharif, President of United Nations Communications Association of Vienna (UNCAV), Austria
•His Holiness Rigzin Dorjee Rinpoche, Founder of Nyingma Institute in Gangtok Sikkim, India
The great Sultan was survived by his Children: Datu Camarod Mastura and Bai Ispandjaria Mastura Sangki. Siblings: Datu Nasrullah “Datu Dido” Mastura, Crown Prince- Datu Muamar “Datu Mama” Mastura, the newly enthroned as 26th Sultan of Magindanaw - HM Zulkarnain “Datunain” Mastura, Bai Salima -“Baiping”Mastura, Bai Mompong- Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura and others (undisclosed names). Grandchildren: Datu Zul Arvind Sharriege Ampatuan Mastura, Bai Shaigne Francine Ver-Quesza Ampatuan Mastura, Bai Allaine Ashley Ampatuan Mastura, Datu Reed Abdul Haffidh Mastura Sangki, Datu Izyan Hadee Mastura Sangki, Datu Fariz Al-Hakeem Mastura Sangki and Datu Zain Muiz Mastura Sangki. Nephews and Nieces: (children of Datu Muamar) Datu Datu Bhang Mastura, Datu Benzarali Mastura, Jusol Asiquin Mastura, Hajar Mastura (sons of Baitolon Mastura) Datu Kamar, Datu Karodz, Datu Suharto. Other relatives: Datu Faizal G. Karon, Raja Buayan Watamama Silongan, Datu Pendatun Mastura, Bai Putri Febraida Mastura Matalam, Raja Bai Jasma Mastura Karon, Bailaga Harjida Mastura Karon - nephews from Sultan Kudarat and Sultan Mastura, Lebak, Kalamansig, Palambang, Maitum and all the MASTURAS CLAN.
The death of Sultan Salem on the 4th of January 2024, has caused a great loss in the culture and leadership of the Sultanate of Maguindanao, being the peace champion and unifier of various tribes and cultural sectors not only in Mindanao but the whole nation.
The 25th Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao was loved and revered by so many Muslim and non- Muslim Filipinos and other nationalities. In his twelve years of reign as Sultan of Maguindanaw, being the successor of the late SULTAN ABDULAZIZ GUIWAN MASTURA KUDARAT IV, he was able to sustain the legacies of his father. Both Sultans had fought for the preservation of customary practices and traditions of their people.
Politicians, government officials, military, policemen, and even the elites and oligarchs considered him as a father figure and a friend. He blended with everyone, rich or poor, influential, or marginalized, and remained apolitical with unsullied reputation. Sultan Salem was a man of humility and dignity. In a world full of corruption and deceit, he never abused his power and authority to enrich himself or his people.
Noteworthy, as well, one of his greatest achievements before he died was initiating a peace and cooperation agreement with different international kingdoms in Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria and among dignitaries, traditional and religious leaders from 20 countries, at the WCH Royal Summit, which was held last October 2023 in General Santos, Mindanao.
As a royal tradition, two Taazi’ah/ Kanduli were held in honor and respect for the departed Sultan. The 3rd day Tazzi’ah was held last January 8 in Cotabato city, while the 7th day was massively executed last January 14 in Lebak, the hometown of the royal clan (Mastura) in Sultan Kudarat.
Throng of mourners and sympathizers flooded both events including big personalities, royals, relatives, dignitaries, politicians, those whom the sultan have enthroned, the highlanders, his family and cabinet members. Among the principalities who came and paid their respect were:
1. Municipality of Palembang
2. Municipality of Kalamansig
3. Municipality of Bagumbayan
4. Municipality of Sultan Kudarat
5. Municipality of Matanog
6. Municipality of Sultan Mastura
7. Municipality of Maitum
8. Municipality of Kiamba
9. Municipality of Maasin
10. Municipality of Kabacan
11. Municipality of Pikit
12. Municipality of Pagalungan
13. Municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat
14. Municipality of Datu Blah Sinsuat
15. Municipality of Datu Abdullah Sangki
16. Cotabato City
17. General Santos City
18. Municipality of Polomolok
19. City of Marbel
20. Municipality of Isulan
21. Municipality of Parang
22. Municipality of SKP
23. Municipality of Lebak
24. Municipality of Kalamansig
25. Municipality of Labangan
26. Officers and men of the 6th infantry Division KAMPILAN) PA AFP, Central Cotabato
Honored as Royal Man of Asia, Sultan Salem was survived by: Children: Datu Camarod Mastura and Bai Ispandjaria Mastura Sangki. Siblings: Datu Nasrullah “Datu Dido” Mastura, Crown Prince- Datu Muamar “Datu Mama” Mastura, the newly enthroned as 26th Sultan of Magindanaw – HM Zulkarnain “Datunain” Mastura, Bai Salima – “Baiping” Mastura, Bai Mompong – Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura and others (undisclosed names). Grandchildren: Datu Zul Arvind Sharriege Ampatuan Mastura, Bai Shaigne Francine Ver-Quesza Ampatuan Mastura, Bai Allaine Ashley Ampatuan Mastura, Datu Reed Abdul Haffidh Mastura Sangki, Datu Izyan Hadee Mastura Sangki, Datu Fariz Al-Hakeem Mastura Sangki and Datu Zain Muiz Mastura Sangki. Nephews and Nieces: (children of Datu Muamar) Datu Datu Bhang Mastura, Datu Benzarali Mastura, Jusol Asiquin Mastura, Hajar Mastura (sons of Baitolon Mastura) Datu Kamar, Datu Karodz, Datu Suharto. Other relatives: Datu Faizal G. Karon, Raja Buayan Watamama Silongan, Datu Pendatun Mastura, Bai Putri Febraida Mastura Matalam, Raja Bai Jasma Mastura Karon, Bailaga Harjida Mastura Karon – nephews from Sultan Kudarat and Sultan Mastura, Lebak, Kalamansig, Palambang, Maitum and all the MASTURAS CLAN.
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.
DOHA, QATAR - Slightly a month after the start of the Gaza conflict and on the morning after the civilian death toll breaching the 10,000 mark, international dignitaries of We Care for Humanity (WCH) gathered for an emergency peace summit yesterday, 09 November 2023 and joined the United Nations in calling for an urgent Humanitarian Pause in the besieged Palestinian territory.
We Care for Humanity is the prestigious international humanitarian organization registered with the United Nations and headquartered in Westmont, Illinois in the U.S. that has actively been hosting successful events on humanism with the United Nations both in New York and Geneva, Switzerland for the past decade.
Symbolically hosted online from Qatar, the lead country in spearheading peace efforts in the Middle East, humanitarian leaders from 21 countries led by WCH founder & president HRH Maria Leonora Amor TorresMastura have jointly voiced out their global call to stop the ongoing onslaught on innocent civilians in Gaza particularly the elderly, women and most importantly children under basic humanitarian principles of every human being’s right to live.
In addition to the WCH country directors, peace advocates and ambassadors from the USA, UK, Qatar Uganda, Ghana, Kenya, Malaysia, Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Lebanon, Romania, Poland, UAE, Austria, Palestine, Vietnam, the Philippines, Pakistan and Norway, last night’s historic meeting was also attended by distinguished delegates from the United Nations Correspondents Association in Vienna (UNCAV), Sustainable Development Alliance of Ghana, the HBM Foundation of Switzerland, the Sultanate of Magindanaw of the Philippines, Tikkun Worldwide Charity of the United States, Royal Bodyguard Association of Malaysia, to name a few and prominent humanitarians to include traditional royals, artists, bishops, doctors and scholars.
In her opening address, WCH matriarch HRH Maria Leonora Amor Torres has underscored the kind of poison that war brings into the heart and soul of every human. "I know some of you like me don't understand the full context of this war, or maybe we refused to understand because War is poison in our hearts and soul just by hearing it, let alone being in it or surrounded by it. But, whether we understand this war or not, I know you will agree with me that thousands of people, especially children, innocent children women and children are being slaughtered beyond our comprehension because of greed, ego, hatred and revenge! But let me be clear, the purpose of this meeting is not about solving the war or finding solution to end the war. It is so complicated and very political it can cost our organization even our lives! Unfortunately, this is beyond our ability at the moment, when both parties are determined to wipe out each other, we know we cannot stop the bloodshed, but it should not be at the expense of innocent people! However, we cannot be bystanders any longer, we must break our silence and choose a side, not the the side of Israel or Hamas, but our side, the side of humanity. We must do something about this, otherwise, we should not be called We Care for Humanity at all! So, today, I summoned all of you to stand by WCH, to plead for Peace and a Humanitarian Pause and let a little humanitarianism prevail in this unforgivable war and save the remaining lives in Gaza."
From the Sultanate of Maguindanao, “Bismillahi Rahmaneer Rahim Assalamu Alaykum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuhu. We express our deep sympathy and sorrow over the crises in Israel and Palestine. We grieve with the victims and their mourning families. And we pray and ask for an immediate cessation of hostilities from both parties. The SULTANATE OF MAGINDANAW MANDANAUE DARUSSALAM, PHILIPPINES is calling the attention of the UNITED NATION INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS to perform their duties and responsibilities. Indiscriminate bombings and killings of all ages especially those innocent children and women causing tremendous horrific psychological impact and thousands of deaths. We will pass a resolution addressed to the United Nation Secretary-General Antonio Gutterrez to ask/declare Humanitarian Ceasefire/Pause and pressure both ISRAEL and PALESTINE to submit/conform. We are gathered today, to coordinate and participate together with the WE CARE FOR HUMANITY to ensure the preservation of life of everyone especially the children involve is such present situation, whether Israeli or Palestinian, including foreign people based in Gaza strip. Let Us Call For Peace! Let Us Call for Humanitarian Pause! Wassalam”, stated the Secretary General, HRH Princess Ispandaria Mastura Sangki.
After hearing the sentiments and echoing calls for the restoration of humanity in Gaza by all participants from around the world, the delegates have unanimously committed to reciprocate the calls to action for a humanitarian pause for Gaza in their respective countries with the hashtags: #CallforPeace, #HumanitarianPause and #StoptheKilling.
In concluding the event, WCH Interim Country Director for Qatar Joseph Timothy Rivera orated the summit’s universally agreed declaration now already submitted to the United Nations Secretary General:
“We, the Peace Ambassadors & International Humanitarian Volunteers of We Care for Humanity led by our President HRH Maria Leonora Amor Torres, stand hand-in-hand with the United Nations in calling for the following actions to be implemented in Gaza:
1.Immediate humanitarian Pause to allow much more efficient delivery of needed aid to the suffering civilians and to provide fuel to basic health & medical facilities;
2.For all sides to stop the infliction of harm to the civilian citizens of Gaza particularly the elderly, women and most especially Children ;
This global appeal in saving humanism in Gaza is part of our fundamental mission to be a catalyst for change, transforming people to becoming humanitarians, and for the fulfilment of our aim as sustainable partner of the United Nations in promoting the 17 UNSDG towards the 2030 UN Agenda.”
A poem dedicated to this cause was written by WCH Official Poet, Maureen Brindle
