The Enthronement of Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI

The recent enthronement of Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI as the 26th legitimate Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao marks a significant event in the history of the region. Despite numerous aspirants vying for the title, the position has been rightfully claimed by His Majesty Sultan Abdulaziz Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI. His appointment as the legitimate successor by the late Sultan Salem and the popular choice of the Maguindanao people solidifies his position as the rightful heir to the throne. It’s important to note that he hails from an unbroken line of sultans since Sultan Muhammad Dipatuan Kudarat who reigned over the Sultanate of Maguindanao from 1625 to 1671.

The Auspicious Enthronement Ceremony

The enthronement ceremony took place on the 14th of January during the Taazi’ah/Kanduli for the late 25th Supreme Sultan, Abdulaziz Guiwan Salem Mastura Kudarat V. The event was flooded by thousands of people and was attended by prominent personalities from both local and international communities. Traditional leaders, politicians, religious figures, tribal groups, and representatives from 26 principalities of Mindanao graced the occasion. The presence of officers and men of the 6th Infantry Division (Kampilan) PA AFP, Central Cotabato, added to the significance of the event.

Future Plans and Coronation Ceremonies

The Sultanate’s cabinet members have revealed plans for two additional coronation ceremonies scheduled for this year. The second ceremony is set to 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 the WCH Royal Summit in Manila. This grand event will host a multitude of international monarchs, dignitaries, and United Nations representatives, making 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 Sultan Salem has been upheld, and Datu Nain is the rightful heir to the throne. However, there have been reports of individuals, including some relatives, plotting to usurp the throne. Despite these challenges, the Sultanate remains committed to upholding its traditions and strengthening its position.

Renowned humanitarian and founder of the international charity organization “We Care for Humanity” (WCH), Queen Mariam Torres Mastura, has vowed to help ensure that the Sultanate emerges stronger than ever before. As the crowned Bai Mompong sa Magindanaw, she expressed her duty to support her brother, the Supreme Sultan, in preserving the Sultanate and its goals. She also emphasized her commitment to bringing His Majesty to the United Nations to represent the interests of the Sultanate and gain international recognition.

Several international dignitaries and monarchs have sent congratulatory messages to Sultan Zulkarnain, acknowledging the significance of his coronation. Dr. Abdallah Sharif, President of the United Nations Correspondents Association of Vienna (UNCav), extended warm greetings and wishes for success and prosperity. H.E. Ivo Josipovic, the 3rd President of Croatia (2010-2015), expressed his delight and best wishes for Sultan Zulkarnain’s reign. Additionally, HRH Isabaruuli Isabarongo Mwatyansozi Mwogezi Butamanya, King of Buruuli Kingdom, also extended his congratulations to the new Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao, Philippines.

Expanding the Reach of the Sultanate

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 the reach of the enthronement to the entire Mindanao region. The third and most significant coronation is scheduled to occur in October at the WCH Royal Summit in 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.

Challenges Faced by the Sultanate

However, the sultanate is not without its challenges. “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,” his Royal Highness Datu Mama revealed.

The situation has prompted the renowned humanitarian and founder of the international charity organization, We Care for Humanity (WCH), Queen Mariam Torres Mastura, to pledge her support for the sultanate. “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.

International Recognition and Support

The enthronement of Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI has garnered widespread international recognition and support. Several dignitaries and monarchs have sent congratulatory messages, expressing their well-wishes and support for the new Supreme Sultan of Maguindanao.

Dr. Abdallah Sharif, President of the United Nations Correspondents Association of Vienna (UNCAV), stated, “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 Josipović, the 3rd President of Croatia (2010-2015), also sent his congratulations, saying, “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!”

Furthermore, HRH Isabaruuli Isabarongo Mwatyansozi Mwogezi Butamanya, the King of Buruuli Kingdom, also extended his well-wishes and support for the new Sultan of Maguindanao.

The Sultanate’s Vision and Aspirations

The enthronement of Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI marks a new chapter in the history of the Sultanate of Maguindanao. With the support of his family, the sultanate’s cabinet, and the international community, the new Sultan is poised to lead the kingdom towards a future of prosperity, stability, and global recognition.

The sultanate’s vision is to strengthen its position as a respected and influential institution, not only within the Philippines but also on the global stage. The planned coronation ceremonies in Cotabato City and Manila underscore the sultanate’s commitment to expanding its reach and engaging with the international community.

Furthermore, the sultan’s pledge to represent the interests of the sultanate at the United Nations and ensure global recognition of his position as the true Sultan of Maguindanao signifies the sultanate’s aspiration to play a more prominent role in international affairs. The support and endorsement from prominent international figures and organizations further bolsters the sultanate’s standing and legitimacy.

The Sultanate’s Transformative Initiatives

Under the leadership of Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, the Sultanate of Maguindanao is poised to undertake a series of transformative initiatives aimed at improving the lives of its people and strengthening the kingdom’s economic and social fabric.

One of the key priorities of the new sultan is to address the longstanding issues of poverty and underdevelopment within the Maguindanao region. The sultanate plans to work closely with local and national government agencies, as well as international organizations, to develop and implement targeted programs and initiatives that will provide access to essential services, infrastructure, and economic opportunities for the people of Maguindanao.

Additionally, the sultanate is committed to fostering religious and cultural harmony within the region. By promoting interfaith dialogue, preserving traditional practices, and celebrating the diverse heritage of the Maguindanao people, the sultanate aims to strengthen social cohesion and unity, which are crucial for the long-term stability and prosperity of the kingdom.

Furthermore, the sultanate is exploring opportunities to leverage its strategic location and natural resources to drive economic growth and development. This may include initiatives to promote tourism, attract foreign investment, and develop sustainable agricultural and industrial sectors that will create jobs and generate revenue for the kingdom.

“Sultan Zulkarnain: A Storied Legacy of Leadership and Heritage Preservation”

About Sultan Zulkarnain

Sultan Zulkarnain, also known as Datu Nain, is a highly esteemed figure in Mindanao, the Philippines’ oldest and most important Muslim state. He has a strong educational background, having graduated from Manuel L. Quezon University in Manila with a degree in Bachelor of Science and Commerce.

Leadership and Contributions

Prior to his coronation, Sultan Zulkarnain served as the President of the Sultan Kudarat Descendants Organization of the Philippines (SKDOP), a non-profit organization with the main mission of uniting the country’s traditional leaders and preserving 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, ensuring their continuity for future generations.

Royal Lineage

Sultan Zulkarnain 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 from 1925 to 1930. As a legitimate successor to the throne as “Sultan of Magindanaw,” Sultan Zulkarnain hails from the royal unbroken lineage of the late Sultan Almanza Zulkarnain, who spent 8 months on the throne in the year 1830.

The succession to the throne has been a significant part of Sultan Zulkarnain’s family history. His son, the crown prince, Raja Tua, who was supposed to be the successor to the crown, tragically passed away ahead of his father. Consequently, his son Sultan Jamalol Azam Untong Qudratula II assumed the post and reigned from 1830 to 1854. Following him, his cousin Sultan Makakua ruled from 1854 to 1884, succeeded by Sultan Pablo from 1884 to 1895. Next in line was Sultan Mangigin from 1896 to 1924, followed by the son of Sultan Jamalol Untong Qudratulah II, Sultan Iskander Hijaban Mastura Kudarat III, from 1925 to 1930.

After the death of Sultan Hijaban, his sister, the regent queen Raja Putri, appointed Mohamad Tato Kalog as the caretaker to the throne from 1933 to 1992. Following the death of Ismael Kalog, the son of Sultan Hijaban, Abdulaziz Datu Guiwan Mastura Kudarat IV was enthroned as Sultan of Magindanaw from 1993 to 2010. He relinquished his crown to his son, Sultan Abdulaziz Salem Mastura Kudarat V, in 2010. Sultan Abdulaziz Salem Mastura Kudarat V reigned until his death on January 4, 2024. It was at this point that 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.