The Iranūn
Reclaiming ancestral waters through research, legal advocacy, and indigenous rights education.
Our Mission
To restore recognition of Iranūn sovereignty over Sulawan-Panakot(the Spratly Islands and Scarborough Shoal) through rigorous historical research, genealogical verification, and international legal advocacy.
Our Vision
A world where indigenous maritime peoples are recognized as legitimate stakeholders in ocean governance—not as historical footnotes, but as co-sovereigns with legal standing in international law.
What We
Historical Research
Compile and verify genealogical records, colonial archives, and indigenous oral histories.
Current projects:
- →Carta Indigena analysis
- →Salsilah verification
- →Colonial archival research
Legal Advocacy
Prepare legal briefs and advocate for indigenous rights in international forums.
Current projects:
- →UNDRIP compliance monitoring
- →International court filings
- →Expert testimony coordination
Education & Outreach
Develop teaching materials and public campaigns to counter colonial narratives.
Current projects:
- →Lesson plan development
- →Documentary production
- →Academic conferences
Community Support
Provide resources and representation for Iranūn descendants asserting their heritage.
Current projects:
- →Genealogical verification assistance
- →Cultural preservation programs
- →Descendant networking events
Governance
Board of Heirs
The Foundation is governed by documented descendants of Iranūn maritime lords—not outside academics or NGO professionals. This ensures indigenous control over our own narrative.
Key principles:
- ✓ Decisions require 2/3 majority of verified heirs
- ✓ No external donors can influence policy
- ✓ All board members publish genealogical credentials
Advisory Council
While heirs maintain decision-making authority, we collaborate with experts in international law, Southeast Asian history, and indigenous rights advocacy.
Current advisors include:
- ✓ International law scholars (UNCLOS, UNDRIP)
- ✓ Southeast Asian historians & anthropologists
- ✓ Indigenous rights lawyers & advocates
Support Our Work
Financial Donations
Fund archival research, legal fees, and educational materials.
Volunteer Expertise
Researchers, translators, legal analysts, and educators needed.
Institutional Partnerships
Universities, museums, and archives can support document access.
Contact & Transparency
General Inquiries
Email: info@sulawan-panakot.ph
Media Requests: press@sulawan-panakot.ph
Legal Inquiries: legal@sulawan-panakot.ph
Financial Transparency
We publish annual financial reports showing all donations and expenditures.