Legarda Joins Celebration of Int’l Indigenous Peoples Day

August 8, 2015

In observance of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (August 9), Senator Loren Legarda today stressed the need for stronger government support for IPs.

 

“This celebration is not only an excellent opportunity to highlight the rich and vibrant culture of our indigenous peoples but also serves as a constant reminder for all of us to ensure that we provide the needed support for our IPs to strengthen their part in nation building,” said Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Cultural Communities.

 

The Senate has already passed on third and final reading House Bill No. 4420, seeking to declare the 9th day of August as National Indigenous Peoples Day to coincide with the international celebration.

 

Legarda said this measure seeks to recognize and protect the rights of IPs across the country by dedicating August 9 to their causes.

 

Moreover, the Senator said that she is also pushing for the immediate passage of Senate Bill 2209 or the Resource Centers For Indigenous Peoples Act.

 

The IP Resource Centers to be partnered with State Universities and Colleges shall serve as venue to promote participatory programs and projects for IPs, to effectively deliver their responsibilities under the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA), and to ensure implementation of their respective Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plans.

 

“We will continue to promote measures that will benefit our indigenous communities and give our IPs the respect, recognition and opportunities due them. We also urge our IPs to likewise continue to fight for their rights and to always protect our cultural heritage amid the challenges of modernization,” Legarda concluded.