Java
These are the original or ancient people of Mindanao, inhabiting the coastal area of Illana Bay. They speak the language called Maranou that is used in the provinces of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur in the Philippines. They are known for their art and cuisine and for their cultural heritage. There are about 1.4 million of Maranaw people, and they are one of three original Muslim groups that have lived in Mindanao. They share many linguistic and cultural characteristics with some non-Muslim groups in this area. There has been an influence from Arab, Indian, Malay,
Javanese and Chinese sources among them.
