In October 2024, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) celebrated Indigenous Peoples Month alongside the 27th commemoration of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997.
This event aimed to deepen the nation’s awareness and understanding of Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
With the theme “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalan” or “Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge,” the month-long celebration highlighted the significant contributions of ICCs/IPs in areas such as agriculture, food security, and the preservation of their rich cultural heritage, customs, and traditions.
It also underscored their crucial roles as stewards of the land and seas and their leadership in nation-building.
Throughout the month, the NCIP organized various activities to showcase the daily lives of ICCs/IPs and their Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSP).
These events celebrated their vibrant cultures, advocated for their rights, and promoted solidarity among stakeholders and communities across the country.
Partnering with national government agencies and various stakeholders, the NCIP worked to uplift the well-being of ICCs/IPs and promote their rights.
“Join us at the NCIP in celebrating this year as we honor and promote the unique languages, customs, traditions, and knowledge of our Indigenous Communities in collaboration for a New Philippines,” stated Chairperson Jennifer Pia T. Sibug-Las, encouraging widespread participation in the festivities.
The NCIP remains dedicated to formulating and implementing policies, plans, and programs that protect and promote the rights and well-being of ICCs/IPs, as outlined in the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997.
