The Island of Panay is now recognized as the youngest among the 21 sultanates in the Philippines after forming an alliance with the Sixteen Royal Houses of Lanao province in Mindanao.

Sultan Topaan D. Disomimba, sultan of Masiu and chairman of the Lanao Advisory Council led the confirmation of the Sultanate of Panay to have been organized subject to the Code of Rules and Protocol inherent and attached to the sultanate system in Roxas City, Capiz on May 26.

Disomimba also led the conferment of titles to the 20 administrative officers of the Sultanate of Panay.

The recognition of the Sultanate of Panay is the newest addendum to the existing sultanates in the Philippines; 16 in Lanao del Sur, three in Maguindanao and one in Sulu.

Early last year, leaders of muslim communities agreed to enthrone Chief Superintendent Cipriano E. Querol, Jr., Police Regional Office 6, as their Sultan.

It is estimated that more than 10,000 muslims live and do business in Panay Island together with the 11 of the 16 sultans in Lanao witnessed the historic event.*