IN A WAY, the recent death of the master chanter of the Panay epic Sugidanon, Leopoldo “Tay Polding” Caballero, called our attention to the state of our Indigenous Peoples (IPs) such as the Panay Bukidnon, etc. More than the rich colors of their traditional attires, the unique beadworks and tattoo, their culture and native dialects, there are stories of struggle behind their existence. It is their plight for peace and self-determination that IPs want the public to know.
IPs are probably the most marginalized sector. But if given more opportunities and stronger support by the government, IP communities can take part in the country’s development. We should not just focus on the rich and vibrant culture of our IPs; we must also constantly remind ourselves to ensure that we provide the needed support for our IPs to strengthen their part in nation-building.
We have the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997 but we know that the concerns of our IPs have yet to be fully addressed. It is for these reasons that we must continue to fight for policies and programs that would give our IPs the respect, recognition and opportunities due them. Several proposed measures have been filed in Congress aimed at protecting the rights of IPs and promoting indigenous culture. The proposed Traditional Property Rights of IPs Act seeks to protect the traditional cultural heritage of IPs and support traditional artists and artisans in their contributions to their respective ethnic cultures and national heritage by ensuring that their rights are safeguarded. There have been many reported incidences wherein indigenous knowledge are being stolen by local and foreign entities. Such acts deprive our IPs of their cultural property, their identity which has been passed on from their ancestors.
There is also the proposed Cultural Education Program Act which mandates the country’s key educational agencies to collaborate and work with the National Commission for Culture and Arts in formulating and implementing plans and programs that will integrate and mainstream Philippine arts and culture in the national education system, primarily through the institutionalization of Schools of Living Traditions (SLTs).
We already have existing SLTs, which teach the young population of IP groups the traditional arts, crafts, music and practices of their community. But we need to take a major leap in making sure the country’s unique and diverse cultural heritage will flourish by mainstreaming indigenous knowledge systems, skills and practices through the institutionalization of SLTs model in the formal education system.
We must ensure that IPs are afforded social services and are empowered to be vital and productive members of our nation. As we move forward and pursue a path of progress, we should always include in public discourse the unique situation and needs of our IPs.
