| Sayyid Capt.Kalingalan Caluang | |
| Birth Name: | Kalingalan Caluang |
| Birth Place: | Luuk, Sulu |
| Death Date: | 1972 |
| Other Names: | Apuh Inggal |
| Organization: | Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo |
| Family: | Ba 'Alawi sada |
| Father: | Caluang son of Panglima Bandahala son of Sattiya Muno son of Sayyid Qasim |
Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang, also known as Apuh Inggal, was a Tausūg who fought during World War II, and a contemporary of Hadji Kamlon.
He is Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang son of Caluang son of Panglima Bandahala son of Sattiya Muno son of Sayyid Qasim. Sayyid Kalingalan followed Sunni Islam Ash'ari aqeeda and Shafi'i Fiqh. He is the grandson of the renowned Panglima Bandahala of Sulu, who were descendants of the Sulu Sultans and had the duty of performing the "Gibha" ceremony before a Sultan could be fully declared as such.[1] [2] [3]
According to some oral narrations, Sayyid Kalingalan was a descendant of the famous Balfaqi Alawi,[4] [5] [6] one of the Sunni Ash'ari Shafi'i' and Sufi missionaries that brought Islam to the Philippines along with Sayyid Makhdum Karim.The seven Arab missionaries were called "Lumpang Basih" by the Tausug, and were Sunni Sufi scholars from the Ba 'Alawi sada of Yemen.[7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15] According to Dr.Ben Kadil, Sayyid Kalingalan is related to the famous Mat Salleh of the Mat Salleh Rebellion through his great grandfather Sattiya Munu or Sattiya Muyyuk. Sayyid Captain Kalingalan is also related to the WWII freedom fight Sergeant (later 2nd Lieutenant) Imam Marajukin L. Ahad according to Tuan Nasser Misal Marajukin, a descendant of Imam Marajukin.
In exploring the intricate web of lineage within the Sulu royalty, the historical narrative of Sayyid Captain Kalingalan Caluang stands out as a testament to the rich connections that define his ancestry. Notably, Kalingalan Caluang's familial ties extend to Princess Tarhata Kiram, adding a compelling layer of significance to his heritage. It is documented that Kalingalan Caluang's mother, Apoh Hj. Norma, assumed the role of wet nurse for Princess Tarhata Kiram,[16] [17] [18] highlighting the intimate familial bonds and shared lineage between them. This historical detail underscores the profound connection between Kalingalan Caluang and the esteemed lineage of Sulu royalty, underscoring the enduring significance of kinship and heritage within this cultural context.[19] [20] [21] Such connections exemplify the intricate interplay of familial ties and historical legacies that shape the narrative of Sulu royalty.[22]
During WWII Capt. Kalingalan Caluang's valor and leadership garnered significant recognition and commendation during his service. Among the notable awards he received was the Bronze Star Medal, conferred under Executive Order No. 9419 on February 4, 1944, for meritorious achievement in the Sulu Archipelago, Philippine Islands, by the Commanding General of the 41st Infantry Division. Additionally, his acts of leadership, resourcefulness, and initiative during critical moments were praised and commended. Despite adverse conditions and enemy engagement, he exhibited exceptional judgment and courage, earning commendations from various commanding officers. His unwavering commitment to duty and his remarkable efforts in maintaining troop morale were recognized and lauded. Notable instances include his dispatching of patrols to intercept escaping adversaries and his initiative in delivering aid to Batobato from Borneo during World War II. Capt. Kalingalan Caluang's contributions to the Sulu Area Command alongside esteemed comrades like LTC Alejandro Suarez and CPT Ismael Kiram remain a testament to his bravery and dedication.[23] [24]
Aside from his valorous exploits in World War II, Capt. Kalingalan Caluang emerged as a beacon of hope for the Bangsamoro people, championing their quest for justice and rights, particularly in the aftermath of the tragic Jabidah Massacre.Jibin Arola emerged as the sole survivor of the harrowing Jabidah Massacre, a tragedy that catalyzed the formation of Ansarul Islam. This pivotal event not only marked a turning point in history but also set the stage for the emergence of influential figures in the struggle for autonomy and justice in the region. Among these figures were the founders of Bangsamoro Liberation Organization (BMLO).[25] and Ansarul Islam, including Capt. Kalingalan Caluang, Rashid Lucman, Salipada Pendatun, Domocao Alonto, Hamid Kamlian, Udtog Matalam, and Atty. Macapantun Abbas Jr. Their collective vision and determination propelled them into leadership roles, shaping the course of the movement.[26]
During this tumultuous period, relationships and alliances played a crucial role in the unfolding narrative. Tun Mustapha, then Chief Minister of Sabah, shared a close bond with Capt. Kalingalan "Apuh Inggal" Caluang, fostering goodwill and cooperation between their respective territories. It was through Tun Mustapha's assistance that the first cadre of MNLF fighters, including individuals like Al Hussein Caluang, received training in Sabah after a stint in Luuk, Sulu (now known as Kalingalan Caluang).It was also through the help of Sayyid Kalingalan that Dr.Pacifico Marcos safely reached Zamboanga. Nur Misuari, drawn by his esteemed reputation as a UP professor, became affiliated with Ansarul Islam. As the movement gained momentum, Nur Misuari assumed leadership of the MNLF, a decision that would later prompt him to seek forgiveness from Capt. Kalingalan "Apuh Inggal" Caluang, a gesture that underscored the complexities and nuances of their shared history.[27]
The municipality of Kalingalan Caluang was established in honor of his name and contributions on December 6, 1975, through Presidential Decree No. 838.