Indigenous groups in BARMM SGA sees IP law as path to a more inclusive government

KABACAN, North Cotabato - Indigenous communities in the BARMM Special Geographic Area recognized the proposed indigenous peoples (IPs) law as an opportunity for meaningful participation in decision-making and governance for IPs.

Welber Saliling, a tribal leader from Kabacan, hopes that Parliament Bill No. 273, or the Bangsamoro Indigenous People Development Act of 2024, will provide them with greater opportunities for inclusive governance and recognition within the BARMM government.
 
The proposed law aims to safeguard and promote the collective rights of IPs in the region.
 
The measure also underlines the importance of IPs participating in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of regional and local development policies, plans, and programs that may have an impact on them and their sociopolitical and economic growth.
 
It emphasizes that the Bangsamoro government is committed to recognizing IPs' inherent right to self-determination and ensuring meaningful autonomy.
 
Through the proposed law, mandatory representation of IPs in local policy-making bodies of local government units will be guaranteed and strengthened.
 
Seats for non-Moro IPs will also be provided in the 80-seat Parliament following the 2025 elections, as outlined in the Bangsamoro Electoral Code.
 
Member of Parliament Kelie Antao said that today's public hearing is historic for the IPs, emphasizing the BARMM government's effort to enact legislation that  fully respects and protects their rights.
 
Provincial Board Member Sittie Eljorie Antao, representing Governor Emmylou  Talino-Mendoza, commended the government's efforts to ensure equal rights and recognition for IPs, stressing the importance of parity in all aspects.
 
Rodolfo Palawan Jr., an IP representative from Carmen, North Cotabato, expressed gratitude to the Bangsamoro government for acknowledging IPs' role and advocating for their rights through the proposed law.
 
Palawan also proposed provisions to secure employment opportunities for IPs, particularly for their educated youth. The proposed code guarantees them equitable access to essential services like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
 
It also seeks to provide equal access to education at all levels, with teaching methods sensitive to indigenous culture and languages. The IP code remains a priority for enactment during the transition period.
 
The next round of public hearings for the proposed law is scheduled for May 17 in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. (LTAIS-Public Information, Publication, and Media Relations Division)