Army’s 29IB partners with IP in historic pact

ARMY’S 29th Infantry Battalion (29IB) has strengthened its ties with the Indigenous People of Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) 092. 

On Sunday, April 12, 2024, a significant Memorandum of Agreement along with a Deed of Grant of Usufructuary Rights were officially signed at the battalion’s headquarters in Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte.

This groundbreaking ceremony marked the first formal signing of a Deed of Grant of Usufructuary Rights between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the leaders of CADT within the CARAGA region, encompassing Cabadbaran City, Santiago, and Tubay. 

The signing was witnessed by prominent figures including Director Ordonio P. Rocero, Jr. of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region 13, and Engr. Cierona Molaan-Cutar, the Provincial Director of NCIP Agusan del Norte.

Under the agreement, the 29th Infantry Battalion is granted access to the ancestral d Signed to Empower Ancestral Domain Rights Indigenous community has given their free and voluntary consent to support the project.

The partnership represents a commitment by the government troops to protect the Indigenous People of CADT 092 against any threats or trespasses on their territory. 

This initiative is not only about security but also about empowering the Indigenous community through various capacity-building programs and socio-economic projects that will enable them to have an active role in managing their ancestral lands.

In his address, Army’s 29IB commanding officer Lt. Col Cresencio Gargar, expressed his gratitude for the solidarity shown by all parties involved. 

“The 29IB is grateful for the cooperation among all parties involved in this agreement,” said Gargar, adding the agreement underscores the significance of preserving the cultural heritage and ancestral domain rights of Indigenous communities.

“Honoring their deep-rooted connection to the land and resources, and promoting their identity and continuity,” he addef.

The Indigenous leaders of CADT 092 have shown a strong commitment to this partnership, recognizing the potential benefits that come with the support of the 29IB. 

They have also highlighted the importance of their culture and the need to safeguard their ancestral lands for future generations.

The ceremony was not just about the signing of documents; it was a cultural exchange that included traditional rituals and a display of mutual respect between the military and the Indigenous community. 

A series of discussions on the implementation of the agreement and the ways forward for the partnership, the event included.

With this agreement in place, the 29th Infantry Battalion and the Indigenous People of CADT 092 are set to embark on a collaborative journey. 

This partnership is a promising step towards fostering peace, development, and cultural preservation within the ancestral domains of the Indigenous People in the CARAGA region.