Davao del Norte – The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) launched Epanaw, a set of three coffee-table books recognizing the Indigenous Peoples (IPs), at Tagum City Atrium on March 21, 2021 where it also staged a Photo Exhibit showing the public a glimpse on what can be found and read in EPANAW.
Newly installed Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, Major General Greg T. Almerol, through Eastern Mindanao Command Deputy Commander, Brigadier General Leopoldo A. Imbang Jr., said that this activity is in line with the Constitution’s mandate to recognize and promote the rights of the Indigenous Cultural Community (ICC) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
As such, “this activity is truly remarkable for this not only highlights the importance of protecting IP Ancestral lands, but also informs the general public of the Indigenous Knowledge Systems and practices in a creative way,” he said.
He added that this will publicize to the world the extent of the IPs’ rich history heritage and culture.
10th Infantry Division (ID) Commander, Major General Ernesto C. Torres Jr., through his representative Col. Jun Glenn Calambuhay, acknowledged the “significant” role of the IPs in nation building.
“This photo exhibit is just one way of recognizing their great contributions by showcasing their vibrant profile, cultures, traditions and stunning tourist destinations in their respective ancestral domains,” he said.
He added that in order to further strengthen the Army and the IPs’ partnership, the 10th ID’s doors are open for IPs who are interested to become soldiers of the Philippine Army “At present, 10ID has numerous IP soldiers who are deployed all over the area of responsibility,” he said.
However, he noted that the IPs’ are still facing “fundamental challenges” such as the need to reduce the high rate of poverty, and the need for greater protection from threats and other peace disruptors.
“In response to this call, 10ID has been doing its best to assist the living conditions of our IPs and free them from bondage of poverty and injustices,” he said.
Torres Jr. said that it is a continued challenge for every Filipino to take part in promoting equal opportunity for the IPs to be empowered in taking part in nation building with an environment that protects them from threats of terrorism and other “peace spoilers”.
“As the commander of 10ID, together with the Agila troopers, we pledge our commitment in uplifting human and cultural rights of our beloved IP brothers and sisters,” he promised.
Similarly, “the Eastern Mindanao Command has pursued significant strides to ensure that government services reach the IP communities,” Almerol said.
He cited that for this, through the Community Support Program, the command works hand-in-hand with Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies, and IP youth Organizations.
These resulted in the building of government-accredited schools, dwelling units sheltering the IPs, the establishment of Youth for Peace Movement and Youth Leadership Summit, and the assistance to former rebels who have surrendered. (Jan Vincent Leuterio, PIA-XI | Michael Manguhig, RPN DXKT Davao OIC)