The Strategic Assistance to Learning for Indigenous Groups (SALIG) Project, supported by the New Zealand Embassy, implemented by Mahintana Foundation Incorporated, together with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), conducted an IEC on IPRA Law and a Capacity Needs Assessment for rights-claiming Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in Barangay Kamanga, Maasim, Sarangani Province, on January 31, 2025.
The activity was attended by ICCs/IPs, represented by elders and clan members; NCIP staff from the Maitum Community Service Center, led by Ms. Jennifer Poncardas, Community Development Officer III; and Atty. Carl Catedrilla, Legal Officer of South Cotabato, who discussed the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA Law, RA 8371).
This initiative aims to educate ICCs/IPs about their rights under the IPRA Law, strengthening their ability to claim and exercise them. It also seeks to identify their capacity-building needs to ensure tailored support and interventions for their empowerment and sustainable development.
Through the SALIG Project, NCIP XII and Mahintana Foundation Inc. aspire to create informed, capacitated, and empowered ICCs/IPs, reinforcing their ability to claim and protect their rights.
