SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) — The “Online Kumustahan” of the Antique Association of Information Officers (AAIO) discussed the salient features of the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997 or the IPRA Law.
Online “Kumustahan” is an endeavor of the AAIO to share updates from various government agencies and local government units. It also features programs and services of a government agency through a virtual platform.
During the recent Online Kamustahan, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) legal officer/lawyer Shyr Pheobe R. Dubal from the NCIP Iloilo Provincial Office was the keynote speaker.
She shared the salient features of the IPRA Law or Republic Act 8371 and the ongoing programs of the NCIP to build resilience and ensure the recognition of Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs).
Dubal emphasized the need to strengthen awareness and understanding of the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) to have a more inclusive program for the Indigenous People (IP).
IPRA is a landmark legislation in the Philippines enacted in October 1997 that seeks to promote the recognition of ICCs and IPs in the country.
Dubal added the law affirms their rights to ancestral domains, self-governance and empowerment, social justice and human rights, and the preservation of cultural integrity.
“This legislation seeks to correct historical injustices against Indigenous people. IPRA embodies equity by ensuring that IPs receive special protection and support to secure their place in society,” she said.
NCIP emphasized that IPRA Law will not only give IPs a voice but also provide them with legal mechanisms to safeguard their heritage and resources.
With this, Dubal enjoined the IOs to support the dissemination of IPRA Law in their respective communities.
Meanwhile, Antique AIO president Primrose Zamora welcomed Charlen E. Panaguiton, NCIP Community Affairs officer assigned in Antique and Aklan to AAIO as a regular member. (AGP/PSM/PIA Antique/with reports from MPO/GIP)
