(L-R) Grandfather of the King of Palu, HM Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, HM Mehdiantara Datupalinge and HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura
26th October, Palu, Indonesia- The Magindanaw monarchy, led by the esteemed HM Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI and the radiant HRH Queen Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, embarked on their final regal expedition to the illustrious Kingdom of Palu. Their host, the admirable His Majesty Mehdiantara Datupalinge, SH, was awarded lauded with the prestigious “Greatest Humanitarians of the World” Award from We Care for Humanity - a testament to his benevolent reign, a monumental highlight of this royal tour to Palu.
Upon arrival, the Magindanaw royals were greeted with grandeur, enveloped in the unique customs and traditions of Palu. This cultural immersion commenced with a humble foot-washing ritual - an auspicious beginning to their palace adventure. A sumptuous feast awaited them on the palatial veranda, a gastronomic gateway to local cuisine, punctuated by the traditional practice of betel chewing. A royal exchange of traditional attire followed, with the King presenting the Sultan with a "siga'" headscarf, while the Queen was adorned in a vibrant red veil.
The royals then extensively explored the opulent "Sou Raja or Banua Oge" palace, a 19th-century traditional marvel, brimming with history. This grand tour was punctuated by the signing of a letter of intent, effectively forging an alliance between the two kingdoms. The day concluded with a lavish feast and an award ceremony, celebrating this cross-cultural collaboration.
Post royal engagement, the Magindanaw monarchs were honored by a courtesy visit from the dynamic Dra. Diah Agustiningsih, M.Pd., the head of Tourism for Central Sulawesi Province.
In a heartfelt note of gratitude, the Royal Tour delegation appreciates the pivotal contributions of Datu Tommy Karwur (Organizer), Gusti Andika Yudhistira, B.Mgt., MM (Interpreter and Guide), and Jeremy Pratama Aroha Rantung (Umbrella Man) in orchestrating their memorable visit to Palu.
The Magindanaw royals departed Palu with hearts full of hope and determination to strengthen the bonds between their kingdoms. Their visit to Palu was not just a diplomatic mission but a journey of friendship and cultural appreciation, setting the stage for a new era of partnership and shared vision.
The prestigious WCH Royal Summit 2024, hosted by We Care for Humanity and the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog (Royal Maharlika) in collaboration with the Sultanate of Magindanaw Mandanaue Darussalam and chaired by Her Royal Highness Maha Putri Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura, in the Philippines, beautifully unfolded a rich tapestry of Monarchs, Investors, and distinguished guests from around the world, all convening under the magnificent roof of the PICC on October 5th.
With representatives from 20 nations—including the USA, Bangladesh, Benin, Brazil, Canada, China, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mali, Moldova, the Philippines, Poland, Senegal, South Africa, Taiwan, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam—the summit featured 14 monarchs, including kings, queens, princes, and princesses which include HM Sultan Zulkarnain Mastura Kudarat VI, Supreme Sultan of Magindanaw, HRH Datu Muamar Mastura, The Crown Prince of the Sultanate of Magindanaw, HRH Princess Febraida Mastura Matalam, Royal Princess of Magindanaw, HRM Nana Akomanyi Essandoh V, Sovereign Ruler of Gomoa Odumase, Ghana, HRH Constantine M. Butamanya, King Of Buruuli Kingdom, Uganda, HRH Princess Pulcherie Simpson, Amazon Princess Of Abomey -Benin, HM King Gueye Ndiouga, King of Ndiouga Gueye Lamane Lebous Of Bargny Kingdom, Senegal, HRM Nana Osompa Nyamekye II, King of Gomoa Otaaprow Central Region, Ghana, HH Prince Djissa Houechenou Francois, Prince of Kingdom of Abomey, Benin and YM Princess Iriani Adalci Kuada, Princess of the Kingdom of Siau, Indonesia.
The event commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by the WCH Humanitarian and Investment Forum, which took place at the Manila Prince Hotel, the summit's official accommodation. The presenters for the Investment Forum include Datu Loloy Reyes, Founder and Chairman Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston, Mr. Sundeep Kumar Makthala, Chairman of the World Telugu Information Technology Council (WTITC), Mr. I-Chang Yang, Chairman, Taiwan BA Co., Ltd. Director, Green Gold Biotech Canada Co., Ltd., Engr. Datu Esmael Maulana, CEO, EMGVCI, Mr. Power Tran- Founder, Power Charity, and Ms. Carolina De Oliveira Moura, Lawyer & Entrepreneur, Brazil Ambassador, ImPPPact.
The event commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by the WCH Humanitarian and Investment Forum, which took place at the Manila Prince Hotel, the summit's official accommodation. The presenters for the Investment Forum include Datu Loloy Reyes, Founder and Chairman Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston, Mr. Sundeep Kumar Makthala, Chairman of the World Telugu Information Technology Council (WTITC), Mr. I-Chang Yang, Chairman, Taiwan BA Co., Ltd. Director, Green Gold Biotech Canada Co., Ltd., Engr. Datu Esmael Maulana, CEO, EMGVCI, Mr. Power Tran- Founder, Power Charity, and Ms. Carolina De Oliveira Moura, Lawyer & Entrepreneur, Brazil Ambassador, ImPPPact.
During his welcoming remarks, Sultan Zulkarnain expressed, “I extend a warm welcome to all, especially our foreign delegates who have joined us for this summit. I also congratulate all the honorees of this year's celebration. The Sultanate of Magindanaw takes pride in partnering once again with We Care for Humanity and Royal Maharlika for this magnificent Royal Summit.” The award ceremony commenced with the crowning of the Men and Women of the Year. The honorees were recognized not only for their philanthropic efforts but also for their remarkable ability to inspire positive change and uplift those in their community. The recipients included Hadja Bai Laida Managantal Sawadjaan ,Rmt, Tran Thuy Ha, Lola Smallen, HRH Princess Febraida Mastura Matalam, Hrh Princess Harjida Mastura Karon, Hrh Princess Jasma Mastura Karon, Bai Ali Sansaluna Karon Al-Haj, Shealyn Vo, Princess Carol Lerole, Bai Rahima Emma Hassan Alhaj, Nurjanah Mohamad Tambag, Johairen Mohamad Camin, Albert Wu, Datu Guiambangan Jimmy L. Asim, Datu Abdulgani Abubakar , Vu Viet Chien, Dr. Abubacar Mastura Datumanong, Vladimir Palancica and Shiekh Mohamad Ali Mamondiong.
This was succeeded by the Knights of the Royal Maharlika, who are dedicated Protectors of the Earth, Peacebuilders, and Change-Makers. The members of this Order adhere to a code that highlights values of love, unity, integrity, and compassion. The new knights are: HH Princess Iriani Adalci Kuada, Honorable Asif A. Chowdhury, Hon. Ponnala Lakshmaiah, HM King Gueye Ndiouga, HM Guide Bamba Mahamed, HRM Nana Osompa Nyamekye Ii, HM Prince Djissa Houechenou Francois , Gen Dr. Sevillo B. Tamayo, HD, Maffi Papin Carrion and Ms. Pam Phan.
Following that, the program featured the Royal Investiture. To enhance the influence of the Royal Maharlika and the Sultanate of Maguindanao, HRH Queen Maria Amor appointed new Cabinet Members of the Royal Maharlika and Ambassadors of the Sultanate from various nations to act as representatives. Notable appointments included Archt. Rey John Marañon Lorca, Advocate Carolina De Oliveira Moura, Vladimir Palancica, Gen. Lucrecio Guerra Pingkian, and Gen. Attorney Candelaria L. Rivas, J.D.
One of the key highlights of the event was the Royal Enthronement of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog, conducted in accordance with Royal Decree No. 005 Series of 2023. This expansion of the Sultanate of Magindanaw's territorial authority also marked the revival of the ancient Kingdom of Luzon. Prominent Filipino figures were honored as members of the royal house, beginning with the esteemed Honorable Imelda Papin, the Director of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), former Vice Governor of Camarines Sur and a renowned legendary singer of the Philippines who has been crowned as Lakambini ng Metro Manila. Another notable figure, Archt. Rey John Marañon Lorca, the founder and president of Lorcatecture Corporation, currently serves as a Cabinet Member of the Royal Maharlika and has been honored with the title of Lakan Datu ng Makati.
A significant highlight of the event was the unveiling of a portrait painted by QM, which features the Honorable Ponnala Lakshmaiah, the former President of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee and former Minister of the Government of Andhra Pradesh (1991-1993 and 2004-2014). QM, the artistic name adopted by HRH Queen Mariam, the founder of We Care for Humanity, is a distinguished artist known for her work in immortalizing prominent figures, including kings, popes and presidents from various nations.
To enhance the festivities, esteemed members of the Sultanate and SKDOP graced the stage in a competition for the titles of King and Queen of the Summit, recognizing the best-dressed individuals of the evening. Johairen Mohamad Camin won the title of Queen of the Summit 2024.
The evening was a spectacle of opulence and captivating performances, featuring the Maguiranun Traditional Dance and Music Ensemble, the Amazing Colorguards, finalist Ms. Jessa Mae Gallemaso from Tanghalan ng Kampeon, opera singer Janina Lorelei, and a surprise mini-concert by one of the Philippines' finest singers, Hon. Imelda Papin together with her daughter-actress Maffi Papin Carrion and 2 sisters.
The success of the event relies heavily on the incredible efforts of the committees and volunteers. A special thanks goes to Mrs. Anna Cristi Pangilinan (Program Director), Maria Cristina Torres Ayungao (AV Director), Pastor Ariel Pascual and Ferdinand Torres (Logistics Directors), and Ana Luz Torres (Food Committee), NIPCA, along with Tagumpay Elementary School teachers: Joan Marie C Reodique, John Paul V. Angeles, Emelyn R. De Gracia, Arlyn B. Boton, Krista Jule U. Banton, Mary Grace Palma Garrovillo, Kimberly Gale R. Peñas, Cielo T. Evangelista, Ronald Mark P. Bracero, Annaliza J. Jocson, Brenda Ian S. Madera, Sharmaine Isidro Gen. Licerio; Geronimo Memorial National High School teacher: Elisa Madeline S. Procalla; Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. Elementary School teachers: April B. Nepal, Janette P. Babon; Tagumpay National High School teachers: Krista Jule U. Banton, Arlyn B. Boston, Alona Arit; Girl Scouts Cadets: Samantha Jade M. Palmes, Beatriz M. Lucero, Ziyi D. Oco, Abbygail N. Cruz, Porsche Miel Testa and Chastine L. Lariosa.
Lastly, this event would not be possible without the skilled Masters of Ceremonies: Pastora Riza Torres Pascual and Datu Mike Utto.
Mohamad Firdaus, a native of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, was born into a family with a strong military background, instilling in him a deep-rooted value for self-discipline as a cornerstone of his life philosophy.
Having a familial history in the military, Firdaus has forged a career in the security sector specializing as a Close Protection Officer (CPO), amassing a wealth of experience across 16 diverse countries. His academic journey commenced at UIT Melbourne, laying the foundation for his prosperous professional trajectory.
Throughout his illustrious career, Firdaus has garnered numerous accolades for his exceptional service and has excelled as the top participant in various relevant courses. Fueled by a robust work ethic and unwavering discipline, he has safeguarded both local and international dignitaries, including serving the King of Malaysia XVI.
As an esteemed member of the Bodyguard Association of Malaysia (BGM), bearing membership number BGM-XXXIV, Firdaus actively contributes as a committee member within the association. Beyond his security endeavors, he ardently supports charitable causes and welfare initiatives, actively engaging with philanthropic organizations.
Recognized for his altruism and philanthropic efforts, Firdaus assumes the role of coordinator for We Care for Humanity (WCH) Malaysia. Committed to upholding his dedication to community service and national welfare, he aims to inspire future generations through his exemplary actions.
His core belief is encapsulated in his personal motto: "A life dedicated to aiding others is a life filled with significance."
Jordan Nirankari-Bowen, a distinguished law graduate and accomplished lawyer, heads a thriving international law firm, fortified by his extensive expertise in the global arena. His previous service at the United Nations and advisory roles in numerous embassies attest to his commitment to international diplomacy. Beyond his legal practice, Jordan is a multifaceted entrepreneur, overseeing several businesses across Europe and holding positions within charitable organizations on both national and regional levels. As a philanthropist, he often engages in volunteering, believing that social service and selfless acts are essential to remaining humble and levelheaded.
During his time in Poland, Jordan dedicated himself to supporting refugees from Ukraine and Afghanistan, assisting them in finding emergency and long-term accommodation. He was deeply committed to this mission, even suspending his business activities to continue his support. Despite having lived overseas in India, Korea, and Qatar, Jordan is now based in Poland, where his belief in equality between all genders, ethnicities, and religions remains unwavering.
Rooted in his family's history and deep spiritual beliefs, Jordan is guided by moral foundations and values that drive him to serve the Royal House and the people of the Sultanate of Maguindanao with honesty and faithfulness. He is passionate about upholding the principles, values, and cultural traditions of the Royal House and vows to continue serving and defending it with unwavering dedication.