“Inclusivity and representation are very, very important,” says Chef Miggy Cabel Moreno of Palm Grill and Cabel fame. Mindanao’s rich culture has long been overlooked in mainstream narratives, but that’s changing with two new children’s books: Si Migoy, Ang Batang Tausug and Ang Kuwento ni Putli Mandi. These stories place Mindanao at the heart of the national conversation, reminding us why this region’s voice matters.
Si Migoy, by GMA News Anchor Nelson Canlas, has already captivated readers globally—from Asia to Dubai, Bologna, and soon Frankfurt—proving that Mindanao’s stories resonate worldwide.
Launched August 20, Ang Kuwento ni Putli Mandi—co-authored by Moreno—tells the inspiring tale of a Tausug princess born with a club foot, offering children with similar conditions the gift of representation. The book launch supports The Clubfoot Program of the Philippine NGO Council for Population, Health and Welfare, Inc., in partnership with MiracleFeet USA, blending storytelling with real-world advocacy.
Putli Mandi, named after a cherished Tausug rice cake from Sulu, is presented in Tagalog and English, and uniquely includes a Bahasa Sug version by Dr. Sharifa Pearlsia Ali-Dans, bringing the story home in the Tausug language. Vivid illustrations by Marbin Macalino and additional text by Odette M. de Guzman complete this collaborative work, published by Palatable Books and Paper Kat Books.
The launch was a celebration of Mindanao’s spirit, joining children and parents from St. Martin de Porres Center with prominent guests like former Tarlac Governor Tingting Cojuangco and Maharlikhang Filipino Awards Chairman Bennilyn Amigo-Molina. General Santos City Rep. Shirlyn Bañas-Nograles stressed why Mindanao’s stories must be included in the national narrative and donated copies to the National Book Development Board’s Book Nook Project for nationwide library distribution.
Adding warmth to the event, GMA Anchor Pia Arcangel-Halili read the story aloud, while Moreno delighted the crowd with a live cooking demo of the Tausug dessert that inspired Putli Mandi’s name. “Imagine, earlier 60 children had no idea what putli mandi is—and now, new 60 souls know what it is,” Moreno beams.
Bangsamoro Parliament Member Honorable Abrar Hataman hailed the books as “instrumental in protecting heritage for future generations of the Bangsamoro,” empowering young minds to take pride in their identity and culture.
In a world shaped by stories, Si Migoy and Ang Kuwento ni Putli Mandi shine as vital beacons of Mindanao’s enduring legacy—proof that every story deserves to be told, every voice deserves to be heard. | Photos by Nikki Limlengco & Chef Miggy Cabel Moreno
