Despite challenging weather conditions, the Casa Real de Iloilo was alive with celebration as the Province of Iloilo commemorated Indigenous Peoples’ Day today, honoring the rich cultural heritage and rights of Indigenous communities.
The program highlighted the significance of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, which acknowledges the rights of Indigenous peoples to their ancestral domains and cultural identities.
This year also marks the 27th anniversary of IPRA, focusing on the theme “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan, at Parangalan.”
The Provincial Ordinance No. 2016-136 institutionalizes October 24 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Iloilo, aiming to showcase cultural performances and traditions of Indigenous communities.
Inspirational speakers included Indigenous leaders Rola Salveo, Teacher-in-Charge at Nagpana Elementary School in Barotac Viejo and Emelyn Tano, Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager of Tubungan, who shared their personal challenges and successes.
The celebration also recognized the educational achievements of Indigenous youth.
Around 100 IP Scholars under the PSWDO Province Of Iloilo participated in the activity.
The Iloilo Provincial Government’s educational assistance program aims to support Indigenous students in completing their college education, promoting economic development within their communities.
Also present in the activity were National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) Regional Director Atty. Princess Mae Alcarde-Oral, Officer-in-Charge Governor Atty. Dennis Ventilacion, and Provincial Administrator Raul Banias.
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