Various Indigenous Peoples (IPs) Tribes and Women flocked together to commemorate the National IP Month at the Sha-la Hall, Sison, Pangasinan.

Coming from Barangays Agat, Sagunto, Calunetan, Labayug, Asan Norte, Asan Sur, Bila, Cauringan, Dungon, Esperanza, Alibeng, Inmalog, and Paldit, 383 IPs and Women attended the IPs’ and Women’s Caravan conducted by the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) under the leadership of Municipal Mayor Danilo C. Uy with the theme, “Proud IP”.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) promotes women welfare and reaches out to the IPs to keep their culture alive and cherished. IPs are DSWD’s valued partners in the Program implementation despite cultural differences. DSWD Assistant Regional Director for Operations Marlene Febes D. Peralta said, “Ang pag-ahon ay para sa lahat. Walang pinipiling edad, sekswalidad, paniniwala, at kultura. Kayo ay katuwang namin sa tunay na pagbabago (Development is for all. It is not based on age, sexuality, beliefs, and culture. You are our partners for genuine change).”

Selected participants represented their respective tribes as they proudly ramped their colorful cultural attire and showcased their cultural dances led by the LGU IP Mandatory Representative Ms. Josephine Saguirre.

Barangays Alibeng, Inmalog, and Paldit were announced as the Best in Barangay Booth with Php5,000.00 cash prize. Abundant and fresh farm products, fruits, spices, and handicrafts were displayed in their respective booths made up of indigenous materials.

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) provided a brief orientation on the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (Republic Act 8371). While the Commission on Population talked about Family Planning and Responsible Parenthood.

The IPs and non-Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries availed free medical and dental services through the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC), Provincial Health Office (PHO), Rural Health Unit (RHU), and Department of Health (DOH).

According to Ms. Daisy Fernandez, member of the Bago Tribe, she was grateful of the free medicines and the tooth extraction she was able to avail.

Prizes were given to the winners of raffle draws and parlor games. DOH backpacks and “Proud IP” t-shirts were also given.

 

Presidential Decree 1906 declares October as National IP Month based on the constitutional mandate of recognizing and protecting the rights of indigenous cultural communities geared towards national unity and development. (by: Jaesem Ryan A. Gaces, Information Officer II/Pantawid Pamilya)