The Torogan house is getting a revival through the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao Barangay Halls. The BARMM Barangay Halls’ design reflects the Toragan, a culturally-significant royalty house of the Maranao. This unique fusion of contemporary and ancestral design presents a powerful vision for bringing communities together to celebrate their cultural heritage.
The Torogan house is an iconic structure in the Philippines, one of the most beautiful examples of traditional Filipino architecture. The Torogan house dated back to pre-colonial times and was used by members of the nobility in Maranao Culture.
What is unique about the Torogan is that it shows an aesthetic of “flying or floating” because of its large wooden end beams called Panolong at the front and sides of the structure. These Panolong, or “prows”, are fashioned to resemble the intricate designs found on Maranao boats, known as “Awangs”. The structure’s design intentionally gives the impression of a majestic vessel floating atop several canoes.
Commonly found in the Torogan, the Panolong are masterfully carved with elements of “Niaga,” representing a sea serpent, and other flowing “Okir” designs. Typically, each Panolong has a unique design, with the sixth one generally sporting a curling “Piako” or fern-like pattern. Smaller and less detailed Panolong might also be present on the front left and right-hand sides of Torogan, particularly those owned by influential leaders.
Carvings also embellish the Toroga’s sills, windows, and door frames with Okir, also called Okil, which refers to folk motifs and plant-based designs that predominantly characterise the art of the Moro and Lumad communities found in the Southern Philippines and certain parts of Sabah. These intricate, woven patterns feature a combination of curvilinear and rectilinear forms and showcase these cultural communities’ unique skill and depth.
The narrow windows and doors traditionally slide open or closed along a wooden channel, aptly named “Sinongod”. These are locked by wooden pieces that restrain them from sliding open.
Overall, the crafting of Panolong is an age-old Philippine tradition boasting exceptional artistry.
The Torogan, Contemporary Come Back!
At present, the Torogan is getting a revival with the BARMM Barangay Halls being built around the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao headed by BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, Al Haj through the Ministry of Interior and Local Government lead by Minister Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo. One example of the barangay hall recently launched was the new barangay hall in Salipongan, Balindong, Lanao del Sur, headed by Mayor Amer Reggie Bagul and Village Chief Assha Said. Dubbed “Absolutely breathtaking! the two-story building has set the bar for village hall aesthetics with good attention to detail.
Inaugurated last Wednesday, May 17, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, through its Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), the barangay hall is set to enable constituents within the area to start enjoying services within their community.
The building boasts several amenities, including shower rooms, a conference room, an office, and a veranda on the second floor. The first-floor window boasts different charming colours of sampaguita glass in small square segments – adding splashes of colour to the monochromatic tone facade of the building. Windows are awning, a contemporary version of the “Sinongod” design of the traditional Torogan.
Additionally, the stairway is adorned by a large chandelier showing the grandeur of the interiors.
Floors were tiled with stone-like and wooden patterns – an example of traditional design with modern technology.
The end beams were adorned with winged-like slabs – the Panolong, masterfully embellished with the “Piako” motif – giving the age-old Philippine and Mindanao tradition a magnificent comeback for the artistry and industry!
What is most enchanting is the roof having a vent for hot air to come out and perfectly designed with Okir around the fascia, just like the traditional Torogan!
Barangay halls of this exquisite calibre flourish throughout the Bangsamoro region, emulating this success. Visitors are greeted with a wonder of culture as the building showcases the rich history of the Bangsamoro community. The facade is a striking representation of centuries-old values and traditions, a testament to the community’s unique character.
The building was architecturally designed by Ar. Gloryrose Dy Metilla and Ar. Nad Sali. Engineering designs came from the technical expertise headed by Engr. Bob Sali of the Ministry of Interior and Local Government Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao with the leadership of MILG Minister Atty. Naguib Sinarimbo. Communities personalise BARMM Barangay Halls to give them a contextual look appealing to locals and visitors worldwide.