CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Two top officials of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Collection District X received prestigious traditional honors from the Maranao community in a ceremony highlighting leadership, cultural heritage, and public service in Mindanao.

Deputy Collector for Operations, Atty. Mohammad Ben-Usman was formally enthroned as the new Sultan sa Masiu, Royal House of Phangampong a Masiu in Lanao, while District Collector Atty. Manuel “Manny” Zurbito Jr. was conferred the honorary title of Datu a Mangompia sa Northern Mindanao.

The recognition underscores the growing role of government leaders in fostering peace, unity, and cultural understanding beyond their official mandates.
Ben-Usman’s enthronement carries historical and cultural significance within the Lanao Sultanate, which is composed of the principal states of Masiu, Unayan, Bayabao, and Baloi.

The centuries-old institution symbolizes collective leadership, solidarity, and equality among the Maranao people.

According to community leaders, Ben-Usman was chosen in recognition of his academic excellence, professional achievements, humanitarian efforts, and commitment to public service.

A graduate of Mindanao State University, Ben-Usman earned his degree in Mathematics with honors and was recognized as one of the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) in 2010.

He later participated in international academic and leadership programs in the United States and Japan, focusing on Peace Education and Conflict Resolution.

He obtained his Juris Doctor degree from Mindanao State University, became a member of the Philippine Bar, and further pursued a Master’s in Public Policy degree at Ateneo de Davao University.

In 2019, Ben-Usman made history after being appointed as the youngest Customs Collector in the Bureau of Customs at the age of 29.
Also honored during the ceremony was his wife, Atty. Rosaemmah Mapupuno Salic, CPA, who was enthroned as Potre Maamor ko Phangampong a Masiu.

Meanwhile, Zurbito’s conferment as Datu a Mangompia sa Northern Mindanao recognized his support for initiatives promoting peace, cooperation, and community development in the region.

Known for his strong leadership at the Port of Cagayan de Oro, Zurbito has been instrumental in strengthening customs operations while maintaining partnerships with various stakeholders in Northern Mindanao.

Officials from BOC Collection District X said the honors reflect the agency’s commitment not only to efficient public service but also to meaningful engagement with local communities and cultural institutions.

The Bureau emphasized that fostering collaboration, respect for heritage, and inclusive development remains aligned with its broader mission of integrity and nation-building.
For many observers, the recognition bestowed upon Ben-Usman and Zurbito represents a rare convergence of public leadership and traditional authority — demonstrating how cultural institutions and government service can work together in advancing peace and progress in Mindanao.

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