Queen of Maharlika, Mariam Leonor Torres Mastura Returns to Warsaw for Historic Diplomatic Visit

On Saturday, 12 April 2025, Maha Putri (Queen) Maria AmorLeonora Torres Mastura undertook a momentous and historic return to the Republic of Poland, marking her second official visit to the capital city of Warsaw following her initial diplomatic mission in 2023. This highly anticipated occasion bore witness to the formal inauguration of two pivotal institutions: the Royal Chamber and Administrative Office of the Royal House of Luzon Tagalog, and the Royal Embassy of the Sultanate of Magindanaw (Maguindanao) to Poland.

In her dual capacity as Bae Mompong and Minister for Foreign Affairs for the Sultanate of Magindanaw, Queen Mariam officiated the solemn opening of the Royal Embassy, an endeavor made possible through the efforts of Datu Jordan Nirankari-Bowen, who serves with distinction as Ambassador of the Sultanate to Poland. The newly inaugurated Embassy symbolizes the growing bonds of friendship, cultural exchange, and diplomatic collaboration between the Sultanate of Maguindanao and the Republic of Poland.

A Private Audience of Cultural and Diplomatic Exchange

The day’s formalities were followed by an intimate private audience held at the Royal Embassy, which was attended by family, close friends, and distinguished colleagues of the Embassy. The reception provided a reflective and enriching space for meaningful discussion on contemporary global issues and offered guests the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Sultanate’s unique heritage and mission.

A focal point of the event was an insightful open question and answer session led by Hania Dębowska, a student of Cultural Anthropology at the University of Warsaw. With a depth of scholarly curiosity and thoughtful articulation, Ms. Dębowska steered a vibrant and enlightening discussion on the cultural, historical, and geopolitical significance of the Sultanate. Her questions enabled the gathered audience to appreciate the Sultanate’s legacy as an enduring sovereign entity in the Southern Philippines, its diplomatic ethos, and its commitment to peace and cultural preservation.

The Maha Putri responded with candor and poise, underlining the importance of cultural diplomacy and intercultural understanding in today’s increasingly interconnected world. She also highlighted the unique contributions of the Sultanate to global dialogues surrounding indigenous governance, international diplomacy, and cultural resilience.

A Voice for Peace and Solidarity

Another deeply poignant moment came during reflections by Marta Shokalo, BBC Editor-in-Chief for Ukraine, who took the floor to speak on the continuing crisis in Ukraine. Ms Shokalo provided an emotive account of the ongoing human toll resulting from the Russian invasion, offering a sobering reminder of the stakes facing Europe and the world in these uncertain times. Her words struck a particular chord with the Royal House, for whom the plight of Ukraine remains a matter of profound personal concern.

Indeed, the Queen’s earlier visit to Poland in November 2023 had been specifically undertaken to express solidarity with the people of Ukraine and to advocate for global support in their time of need. During Saturday’s address, Queen Mariam reiterated her unwavering support for Ukrainian sovereignty and peace, reaffirming the Sultanate’s dedication to humanitarian principles and justice.