Speaking at the Islamic Capital of the Philippines

Absolutely, it’s one experience that I can never forget.

I was invited to speak in Mindanao State University. originally I agreed to do so with one condition. We should do it in Iligan City. Honestly, I was afraid to travel to Marawi City for no other reason that it’s public image isn’t really good. At least that’s what many people would like to think especially because its the Islamic Capital of the Philippines, there are many Muslims.

Lloyd Luna in Mindanao State University Grounds

But after some negotiations, I agreed to do it there. Still with some doubts of my security, I asked my good friend Ian Barcelona if he can join me. He said sure and why not. I also asked for security escorts upon pickup from Cagayan de Oro airport until I’d go back the following day.

When we arrived at around 6:30 am, we were greeted by wonderful students of MSU. I was just in my plain tshirt and skinny jeans and it took them some time to be sure it’s me, their speaker, who just arrived. But we were told that we are “monitored” on our way to Marawi City. I didn’t what “monitor” means but I guess it’s some sort of security measure.

Traveling from Cagayan de Oro, we had a little time for a stopover in Iligan City where we had our breakfast. A couple of minutes more and we were back on the road. In about three hours, we finally got in Marawi Resort and Hotel and the organizers were so kind to accommodate us. There were two ladies waiting for us.

But we had to go through a total of nine military checkpoints.

My turn to speak, as Ian would sleep catch up with some sleep. I was introduced and took the center stage. I was overwhelmed by the responses of my audience. Suddenly, they were so interested and excited to hear what I’m going to say about “their job and career and life” and how they, too, can succeed.

We were having a great, fun-filled conversation when I was told to pause for a lunch break. I thought that was easy—I’d announce the lunch break and stop talking. But the students would not allow me to do so. They wanted me to continue with my speech and so on and so forth. Well, I told them I’m also a human being who can get tired of standing, walking, and talking for long hours.

We came to a settlement and I was able to relax and had my lunch.

I was back for another round to finish my lecture and then Ian took over.

All in all, I had a wonderful experience in Marawi City. What was once a place that I feared is now a place that I’d like to visit again anytime soon but still with a prayer that God would protect me and my mission to reach our brothers and sisters there.

Marawi City Resort and Hotel is a wonderful (and safest) place to stay in Marawi. It’s within the vicinity of a University of the Philippines-like education institution situated in a Tagaytay-like environment. The place becomes foggy in the morning, so cold before dawn breaks, and no need for an air conditioner. It’s a quiet place to stay so should you want to relax and just be closer to nature, it’s one place you can go to.

After the seminar, all my books were sold out (and even got out of stock). When I come back, I think I should double my number. Photo opps here and there and signature and autographs left and right… Whew. That’s it!