IP DAY. Members of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Youth Organizations gather for the celebration of National Indigenous People's Day on Friday (Aug. 9, 2024). The group underscored the importance of preserving their rich culture despite various challenges. (Contributed photo/Bae Anna Jessa Mae Crisostomo)
MANILA – On Indigenous Peoples Day on Friday, IP leaders underscored the importance of the special event that highlighted not only their rich cultural heritage but also their undying hope and resilience amid modern technologies.
“This celebration of International IP Day serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of Indigenous peoples, their contributions to society, and the ongoing need to protect their rights and heritage,” Bawan Jacob Lanes, executive director of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Council of Elders and Leaders, said.
This day also serves as a platform to advocate for IP rights and address pressing issues that the Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) spread across the country are currently facing, he added.
Bae Anna Jessa Mae Crisostomo, spokesperson of the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Youth Organizations, said the celebration is an opportunity for them to showcase their rich culture and tradition.
The IPs' vibrant culture is also manifested through various art exhibits and seminars that aim to nurture awareness and appreciation for indigenous traditions.
“Upang magawa itong mas makahulugan, mahalaga ang pagkakaroon ng mga aktibidad na nagpapakita ng tunay na kalagayan at pangangailangan ng mga Katutubo. Dapat ding bigyang-pansin ang edukasyon at pagpapakalat ng impormasyon upang maipaalam sa lahat ang kahalagahan ng pagpreserba ng kultura at karapatan ng mga Katutubo (To make it more meaningful, it is important to have activities that reflect the true condition and needs of IPs. Attention should also be paid to education and dissemination of information to inform everyone of the importance of preserving our culture and rights),” Crisostomo said.
She said the celebration is a call for the public to recognize the rights and dignity of ICCs with a legislative foundation established by the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act.
“Ang araw na ito ay nagbibigay pag-asa na ang aming mga karapatan ay patuloy na maprotektahan (This day gives hope that our rights will continue to be protected),” Crisostomo said.
She said they continue to face challenges like unequal access to quality education, discrimination, limited opportunities and recruitment by terrorist organizations. (PNA)
