About 200 years before the Spanish arrived, Arab traders and settlers established strong connections in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, where they significantly shaped the region’s culture and governance. They introduced Islam, converting indigenous communities and transforming Mindanao into a religious and political hub. Alongside Islam, Arabs established the sultanate system, where a Sultan ruled based on the number of followers rather than wealth. Their influence extended to Filipino languages, contributing words like “apo” (grandchild), “alamat” (legend), “sulat” (letter), and “salamat” (thank you). Arabs also introduced the use of calendars, further advancing local society. Additionally, Arab presence strengthened the Philippines’ trade relations with other Asian nations, as the Arab empire, being a dominant force in regional commerce, helped integrate the Philippines into the broader Asian trade network.