Ansar El Islam (Helpers of Islam)
The history of the Bangsamoro battle for self-determination is replete with examples of bravery, resilience, and leadership. One such example is that of Ansarul Islam, a vital force in the preservation of Islam in the Philippines that provided the groundwork for what became the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Sayyid Captain Kalingalan “Apuh Inggal” Caluang was a crucial player in the formation of Ansarul Islam, and his genealogy, achievements, and legacy have sometimes been misconstrued or, worse, rejected by others. This page aims to correct the record and highlight the significance of Sayyid Capt. Caluang in the context of the Bangsamoro fight and the history of Islam in the Philippines.
The Formation of Ansarul Islam
Following the Jabidah Massacre in 1968, where Tausūg recruits were slain for refusing to participate in the Marcos regime's secret operation to reclaim Sabah, the Moro people mobilized. This massacre served as a rallying point for Muslim leaders to advocate for greater autonomy and preservation of their rights. These commanders included Sayyid Capt. Kalingalan Caluang, Rashid Lucman, Salipada Pendatun, Domocao Alonto, Hamid Kamlian, Udtog Matalam, and Atty. Macapantun Abbas Junior. The movement sought to preserve and advance Islam in the Philippines while also pushing for Moro rights. This group prompted the formation of the MNLF and the MILF, which would continue the campaign for Bangsamoro autonomy in the years that followed.
Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang’s Lineage and Legacy
Sayyid Capt. Kalingalan Caluang comes from a long tradition of royal and religious leaders in Sulu. He was Caluang's son, the grandson of Panglima Bandahala, and a direct descendant of Sayyid Qasim, a Ba'Alawi sada of Hadhrami origin. His grandfather, Panglima Bandahala, was a close adviser and relative of Sultan Jamalul Kiram II, serving in posts such as Municipal President and peace emissary. This strong tie to the Sulu Sultanate and its leadership not only legitimized Sayyid Capt. Caluang's leadership, but also linked his role to the preservation of Islamic heritage in the region.
His illustrious genealogy, which dates back to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), supplied him with both spiritual authority and esteem. His father, Caluang ibn Panglima Bandahala, and grandfather, Panglima Bandahala, were descended from Sattiya Munuh, who was the son of Sayyid Qasim, a Hadhrami descendant from the Ba'Alawi sada. This hallowed genealogy, which led right back to the Prophet (PBUH), gave their family enormous prestige and duty in the Moro community.
While many famous leaders were acknowledged for their ties to the Sultans of Sulu, Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang's ultimate uniqueness resided in his descent from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Moro people valued their direct ancestry to the Prophet, who is the foundation and core of Islam, more than their proximity to the Sultans. This sacred lineage bore a great deal of responsibility for upholding Islamic ideals and principles in governance and leadership.
The Role of Panglima Bandahala: Guardian of Tradition and Ceremony
Sayyid Kalingalan's grandfather, Panglima Bandahala, was a key figure in the Sulu Sultanate. He received from his uncle, Binatal Arah, a member of the Isnani family ancestry, the important role of overseeing the Gibha ceremony, which is essential for one to become Sultan.. The Gibha was more than just a coronation; it represented divine sanction and spiritual validity. Panglima Bandahala's descent from Sattiya Munuh, another illustrious character in Sulu, cemented his family's place in history, which was further defined by the fact that his ancestors never addressed the Sultan as “Ampun” (lord), a term of submission. This distinct dynamic reveals their shared bloodline with the Sultanate, which confirms their descent from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Relatives of Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang
Other distinguished relatives of Sayyid Captain Caluang also share the honor and prestige of his lineage, such as his cousin, 2nd Lieutenant Imam Marajukin L. Ahad, also known as Imam Jamalul, whose lineage from Ba Alawi further demonstrates the family's sacred connections to the Prophet (PBUH). Similarly, Panglima Mammah, who is the son of Panglima Mangummah and the grandson of Sultan Jamalul A’zam I, was the uncle of Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang, showcasing the strong familial ties they have with the Sulu royal family. Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang's great grandfather, Sattiya Munuh, who was the son of Qasim, was related to Paduka Muhammad “Mat Salleh” Salleh.
Cooperation and Valor: The War Hero during WWII
Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang's contributions extended beyond religious and cultural preservation. In the Sulu Archipelago during World War II, he displayed exceptional courage and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his leadership. His inventive methods and fearless bravery when confronted with challenges created a lasting impact in the area. His leadership went beyond the war period, building connections that influenced the future after the war.
Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his courage and leadership in WWII, presented to him on February 4, 1944, for his exceptional actions in the Sulu Archipelago under Executive Order №9419. His remarkable decision-making, creativity, and proactive approach in critical scenarios, particularly in challenging conditions, were highly recognized. His outstanding efforts to boost military spirits, along with his brave deeds like assigning patrols to intercept the enemy and delivering aid from Borneo, solidified his reputation as a hero of war.
Contributions During Martial Law and the MNLF
Ferdinand Marcos' declaration of Martial Law in 1972 constituted a watershed moment in the Bangsamoro fight, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships and support. Sayyid Captain Kalingalan “Apuh Inggal” Caluang, whose heroism and leadership earned him great acclaim during World War II, played a critical role during this volatile period.
His connections and influence were critical in aiding the Bangsamoro rebellion. Notably, his actions enabled the Top 90 MNLF militants to undergo critical training in Sabah. Tun Mustapha, the Chief Minister of Sabah at the time, had a strong bond with Sayyid Capt. Kalingalan Caluang, which stemmed from their shared genealogy to the Sultans of Sulu. This shared background produced a strong and brotherly relationship between the two leaders, resulting in widespread support for the Bangsamoro cause. Tun Mustapha's help enabled the first cadre of MNLF fighters, including famous leaders such as Al Hussein Caluang, to get critical training in Sabah following their initial preparation in Luuk, Sulu (today called Kalingalan Caluang). Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang's responsibility went beyond just military planning. He displayed his diplomatic skills by ensuring Dr. Pacifico Marcos' safe return to Zamboanga, so cementing his position as a respected and important leader.
During this moment of heavy struggle, Nur Misuari, who would later become a key role in the MNLF, asked pardon from Sayyid Captain Caluang for his previous conduct. This act of reconciliation demonstrates not just the challenges of leadership, but also the tremendous regard that contemporaries had for Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang. His ability to handle these complex connections while remaining steadfastly committed to the Bangsamoro cause demonstrates the significant influence of his leadership during one of the most difficult periods in Moro history.
Honoring a Legacy: The Municipality of Kalingalan Caluang
Presidential Decree №838 was enacted on December 6, 1975, to formally acknowledge the contributions of Kalingalan Caluang by establishing it as a municipality. This legislation acknowledges his enduring influence in the area and his advocacy for the Bangsamoro community.
Conclusion: The Enduring Importance of Lineage
Although Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang's contributions to the Moro struggle are unquestionable, his real legacy is rooted in his relationship with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The core of Islam revolves around the Prophet, and all dignity originates from him. The life, lineage, and leadership of Sayyid Captain Caluang illustrate the significant duty of upholding the bloodline of the Prophet. His participation in Ansarul Islam and the Moro movement went beyond politics, as it was also deeply intertwined with the eternal principles of Islam and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This is the heritage that needs to be recalled, respected, and safeguarded for future descendants.
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