blog #3

 Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan at Parangalanan

PHILSCA celebrates the Indigenous Peoples Month and the 27th Year Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) Commemoration from October 1-30 with the theme “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalana.” (Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge). This momentous event is led by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP).

The October celebration will culminate the activity of honoring the Indigenous Peoples who are prime movers and champions for IPRA, practitioners and advocates in the preservation/safeguarding of the Indigenous Peoples culture and transfer of indigenous knowledge, systems and practices to younger generations.

Throughout October the NCIP celebrates through activities done in person, online (via FB live) and hybrid setup.

This observance raises awareness about the unique traditions, languages, and knowledge systems of IP communities, fostering respect and understanding among the wider public. By highlighting the significance of Indigenous knowledge, the event emphasizes the importance of preserving their cultural heritage and traditional ecological practices, which contribute to environmental sustainability.

The commemoration of the 27th anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) is a key aspect of this month-long celebration. IPRA is crucial in safeguarding the rights of Indigenous Peoples, including their right to ancestral land, self-governance, and cultural integrity. The observance encourages the effective implementation of IPRA and calls for stronger advocacy to address issues such as land dispossession, discrimination, and marginalization.

Moreover, National Indigenous Peoples Month empowers IP communities by promoting their active participation in social, political, and economic decisions that affect them. By honoring their contributions to society, this observance reinforces their right to self-determination and creates opportunities for collaboration between Indigenous groups, government bodies, and non-governmental organizations. In essence, this celebration not only acknowledges the richness of Indigenous cultures but also advocates for the protection of their rights and the continued flourishing of their traditions.

Reference:

https://www.philsca.edu.ph/announcement/indigenous-peoples-month-celebration-and-the-27th-ipra-commemoration/