Tribal folks are gov’t partners – P-Noy

MALOLOS CITY, Philippines – Indigenous peoples (IPs) in the country are not just beneficiaries of reforms in government, but also partners in shaping society.

President Aquino thus said in a speech read by former senator  Jamby Madrigal at the opening of the three-day 2012 Dayaw Festival here yesterday.

The President said the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) is represented at the human development and poverty reduction cluster of the Cabinet as well as the Mining Industry Coordinating Council. He said IPs represented in local legislative councils are also helping craft local policies and laws.  

The President expressed confidence in the new NCIP commissioner, saying he fully understands the plight of IPs and is committed to their advancement.

“Our culture and beliefs are shaped by the many tradition of IPs. Our very history as a free people find roots to in the principle that our ancestors lived by,” he said.

“As the largest gathering of Filipino tribes and indigenous groups, this Dayaw Festival brings us closer as a people. It is by celebrating our diversity that we honor those who came before us and empower all people by recognizing their own identity, their pride and instill a deeper appreciation for our heritage which is vital if we are to move forward as a nation,” the President said.