Officers briefed on indigenous people's rights

CEBU, Philippines – In observance of the Indigenous People's Month, some 50 students undergoing training in the 3rd Army Training Group at the headquarters of the Central Command at Camp Lapu-Lapu recently attended a lecture on Indigenous People's Rights Act (IPRA).

Lawyer Rey Catedrilla, legal officer of the National Commission on Indigenous People, the invited speaker for the activity, cited the importance of the lecture to the men of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Catedrilla explained the event would promote a good working environment between the indigenous people and the officers of the military.

The main topic of the lecture was the IPRA, which was modeled after the provisions of the United Nations Draft Declaration on Indigenous People's Rights. It is the result of various consultations, consolidated bills related to ancestral domains and lands, and international agreements on the recognition of land/domain rights of the indigenous peoples.

During the discussion, Catedrilla said he was satisfied with the participation of the officers.

"Their questions were based on real life experiences. At some point, I've had the difficulty in answering their questions. But, they have really complied with my expectations," he said.

For his part, Major Ronald Jess Alcudia, acting group commander of 3ATG, revealed that these kinds of lectures help their men operating on field to be better equipped especially in dealing with their respective areas of responsibility. - Niña G. Sumacot with PR/WAB (FREEMAN)