Subic, Zambales – In a vibrant and historic ceremony held on April 20, 2025, at the Subic Sports Complex in Brgy. Wawandue, top officials of Zambales were formally enthroned by The Royal Sultanate of Zambales during the Morod and Multaqa 2025 event.
With the theme “The Sultanate of Phangampong A Pilipinas Da’Wah Solidarity”, the ceremony celebrated cultural unity, religious harmony, and strengthened Muslim relations in the province. Male officials were conferred the honorary title of Rajah, while female leaders received the title of Prinsesa.
Among those honored were:
Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. – Rajah ng Zambales
Vice Governor Jacqueline Khonghun – Prinsesa ng Zambales
Congressman Jay Khonghun – Rajah ng Unang Distrito ng Zambales
Congresswoman Cheryl “Bing” Maniquiz – Prinsesa ng Ikalawang Distrito ng Zambales
Mayor Jeffrey Khonghun of Castillejos – Rajah ng Castillejos
Mayor Jon Khonghun of Subic – Rajah ng Subic
In recognition of their new titles, the Rajahs received a ceremonial kris sword, sash, and certificate of investiture, while the Prinsesas were adorned with a sash, malong, and certificate.
The enthronement rites were presided over by Sultan Bob Datimbang Alhajj, the Sultan ng Pilipinas, who emphasized that the event promotes peace, respect, and unity among various faiths across the country.
The newly crowned officials were endorsed by notable Muslim dignitaries, including:
Sultan Cosanie Derogongan, NCMF Director, Bureau of Peace and Conflict Resolution
Sultan Sonny Baniga Alhajj, Sultan Cabugatan sa Pilipinas
Sultan Bob M. Datimbang Alhajj, Sultan sa Pilipinas
A special highlight of the event was the oath-taking ceremony of the Muslim Federation of Zambales, led by its President Parker Bassar, officiated by Governor Ebdane himself.
Bassar extended heartfelt thanks to the Zambales officials for their steadfast support of the Muslim community, underscoring their commitment to inclusivity and cultural recognition.
Other local government leaders and constituents from across Zambales attended the event in solidarity.
The celebration concluded with a captivating performance by the Maranao Dance Group of Subic, bringing the day’s festivities to a vibrant close.