This essay problematizes the resistance-collaboration dichotomy in Muslim responses to state formation. Rather than viewing these responses as proof of multi-faceted 'nationalist struggle', it argues that these were efforts by Muslim leaders to cope with a power transition. Their power was diminished by the Americans, and the Muslim leaders tried to overcome their weakness by trying to play Americans and Filipinos against each other. As Filipinization moved forward, Muslims gradually shifted their political attention to getting a niche and protecting it within the state. The first part of this essay shows how and why these shifts in political allegiance occurred. The second part examines the so-called 'Muslim-Filipinos', the first generation of Muslim leaders who facilitated the integration of southern Mindanao into the colonial body politic.