Hataman says inaccurate depiction of BARMM in dance performance ‘regrettable’ 

Basilan lone district Rep. Mujiv Hataman (PPAB)

Basilan lone district Rep. Mujiv Hataman has described as “regrettable” the Cebu Technological University’s (CTU) cultural dance performance wherein the history of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was depicted inaccurately.

Hataman said the controversial dance took place during the opening salvo of the Sinulog Festival.

“The inaccuracies in the performance, depicting a historical narrative that does not align with the true history of the Bangsamoro people, are truly regrettable,” said the solon, who is a deputy minority leader in the 19th Congress.

He said that there have been “concerns” from many Bangsamoro citizens regarding the recent cultural performance. “Nais sana nating itama ang konteksto at nilalaman ng dance performance na ito (We want to correct the context and contents of this dance performance).”

“While it is commendable to see efforts to showcase the cultural diversity of our regions, such representations must be accurate, especially when they involve regions with distinct histories like the Bangsamoro,” said Hataman, who is a deputy minority leader.

“Makikita natin sa mismong pagsasayaw ng mga taga-CTU na hawak-hawak nila ang imahe o rebulto na simbolo ng ibang pananampalataya. Lilinawin lang natin: Wala pong kahit na anong credible o opisyal na historical account na ang mga mamamayan ng Bangsamoro ay napailalim sa colonial rule ng mga Kastila,” he underscored.

(We can see that the CTU dancers were holding images or statues that symbolize another religion. Let’s just clarify: There is no credible or official historical account which says that the Bangsamoro people were placed under Spanish colonial rule.)

Hataman added: “Cultural performances must be carefully researched, particularly when those executing them are not from the region they seek to represent.”

Despite his remarks, Hataman’s tone toward CTU and the dancers themselves was never hostile.

He said he wants the incident to be a learning experience.

“Nawa’y maging aral ito sa mga susunod na pagtatampok ng lahat tungkol sa kultura ng mga mamamayan sa Bangsamoro araling mabuti ang sining o tradisyon na nais ipalabas,” he said.

(Hopefully this becomes a lesson to all future performances on the culture of the Bangsamoro people, may the arts and traditions to be featured be studied carefully.)

“This way, we can ensure that cultural representations are respectful, accurate and contribute positively to our shared understanding of our nation’s rich heritage. Let us celebrate diversity with accuracy and respect,” Hataman further said.