CAGAYAN de Oro 1st District Rep. Lordan Suan turned over a state-of-the-art two-story tribal hall worth almost P10 million yesterday, February 1, to the Higaonon tribe residing in the Nahilaran Ancestral Domain.
The newly constructed hall, nestled in the hinterlands of Barangay Dansolihon, marks a pivotal moment for the indigenous community.
Expressing gratitude for this unprecedented government initiative, Tribal Chieftain Roberto Cabaring, widely known as Datu Makilala, spoke emotionally about the transformative impact of the tribal hall on their community governance.
He highlighted that, for the first time, a government project had reached the Indigenous People of Dansolihon, ending an era where meetings were held in makeshift structures in the forest.
“This tribal hall will be the key to formally conducting our chief governance,” said Cabaring, wiping tears from his eyes as he reflected on the historic significance of the moment.
Suan shared the inspiration behind the tribal hall project, revealing that the idea was conceived during a visit to the Nahilaran Ancestral Domain. Recounting a meeting held in rustic wooden chairs, he underscored the importance of providing a dignified space for the indigenous community's gatherings.
This marks the second tribal hall turnover by Suan, following the inauguration of another facility at Barangay Tagpangi on January 31, intended for the benefit of the IP community there.
The funding for these tribal halls was secured through lobbying efforts by Suan in the office of Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, who allocated the funds as part of the 2023 Annual Infrastructure Program based on the National Expenditure Program.
“I am delighted to contribute to the welfare of the Indigenous People, especially considering my status as a neophyte congressman. These tribal halls represent a tangible commitment to their empowerment,” Suan said.
In a dual effort to address infrastructure needs, Suan is also scheduled to turn over a farm-to-market road at Barangay Lumbia today.
This 23-kilometer road, constructed for P13 million, includes slope protection to ensure its durability and resilience.
