BTA bill seeks to protect rights of Non-Moro IPs

COTABATO CITY - In a bid to safeguard the distinct indigenous and ethnic identity of non-Moro Indigenous Peoples (IPs), Member of Parliament Froilyn Mendoza has introduced BTA Bill No. 166.

The proposed legislation, which specifically focuses on the rights of non-Moro IPs (NMIPs), seeks to recognize, respect, and defend their indigenous rights, traditions, and institutions.

Having dedicated years advocating for the rights of marginalized communities such as the Teduray and Lambangian, Mendoza aims to establish mechanisms within the Bangsamoro government that effectively protect the rights of NMIPs.

Under the bill, the Bangsamoro government will establish and enforce the necessary mechanisms to protect the rights of NMIPs effectively.

The term "non-Moro IPs" encompasses several groups, including the Teduray, Lambangian, Dulangan Manobo, Blaan, Higaonon, and other indigenous communities that identify as NMIPs in the Bangsamoro region.

Mendoza highlighted that the proposed bill aligns with national policy, which aims to recognize and promote the rights of IPs within the framework of national unity and development.

"The proposal empowers the constitutional duty to protect the rights of IPs to their ancestral lands, cultures, traditions, and institutions, ensuring their economic, social, and cultural well-being," said Mendoza.

The bill mandates the creation of the Ministry of Non-Moro Indigenous Peoples Affairs (MNMIPA), responsible for formulating and implementing policies, plans, and programs that promote the well-being of all NMIPs in the region while recognizing their ancestral domain and rights.

Ancestral domains encompass the lands, inland waters, coastal areas, and natural resources necessary for the economic, social, and cultural welfare of NMIPs. These territories include the spiritual and cultural ties that NMIPs possess, occupy, and have claimed ownership of since time immemorial.

The proposed legislation also addresses the need to prevent non-indigenous peoples from exploiting NMIPs' customs and concepts of ownership or taking advantage of their limited understanding of land ownership laws.

The bill stipulates that NMIPs and their communities should receive an equitable share of no less than 50% of the revenues generated from the exploration, development, and utilization of natural resources within territories covered by native, traditional, or customary titles in their favor.

To ensure effective coordination on matters affecting NMIP communities, an NMIP Coordinating Council comprising representatives from different IP and non-Moro IP organizations across BARMM will be established.

Tribal halls will be set up in various locations for the use of NMIPs, with their establishment being carried out in consultation with the respective NMIP communities.

NMIPs will have the right to utilize their own justice systems, conflict resolution institutions, peacebuilding processes, and other customary laws and practices within their communities, as long as they are compatible with the national legal system and internationally recognized human rights instruments.

The bill also proposes the establishment of a Tribal Appellate Court, which will be responsible for determining, settling, and deciding disputes related to family and property rights based on the tribal codes of the indigenous cultural communities. (LTAIS-Public Information, Publication, and Media Relations Division)