PRESS RELEASE: 26 November 2022|| Inter-Agency Dialogue re Conflict Resolution of the Burning Issues of Matigsalug and Obu-Manuvu ICCs/IPs
The Ancestral Domain of the Matigsalug-Manobo and Obu-Manuvu were already recognized through the issuance of Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) by the Commission En Banc last July 25, 2003 and September 2, 2008, respectively. Both already formulated their Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plan (ADSDPP). However, there is a looming issue with respect to each other’s traditional boundary. Despite series of mediation and dialogue, the issue remains unresolved.
In support to the Ancestral Domain/Land Security and Development Program of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, thru the initiative of its Chairperson Sec. Allen A. Capuyan, the NCIP-Davao City Provincial Office facilitated an Inter-Agency Dialogue on the Conflict Resolution of the identified Burning Issues concerning the traditional boundary disputes between the Matigsalug and Obu-Manuvu ICCs/IPs in Marilog District, Davao City last November 26, 2022 at The Apo View Hotel, Davao City
The dialogue was presided by no less than the NCIP Chairperson Sec. Allen A. Capuyan with key officials from NCIP Central Office, NCIP Regional Office XI Regional Director, Dir. Mumar M. Mamukid and NCIP Davao City Provincial Office, OIC- Provincial Officer Atty. Ronnie A. Bulotano.
It was attended by Matigsalug and Obu-Manuvu IPS Leaders and Elders, culture bearers and clan representatives affected by the boundary dispute. Also present during the said activity were our partner agencies and representatives from the Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) head P/LtCol Angel B. Sumagaysay, City Planning Development Office (CPDO), Engr. Ivan C. Cortez, City Tourism Development Office, Tourism Coordinator Mr. Jomark Lanciano, Peace 911 Focal Person Atty. Jonah Margarette F. Presto, and Mr. Neil Michael Q. Galaura, Licensing Officer, Permits and Licenses Division.
After the presentation of the ground verification results and series of consultation and engagements with the concerned ICCs/IPs, they agreed to resolve the issue through the primacy of customary law and practices (rituals and community dialogues) where they will convene all key leaders of Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) of each AD with NCIP representatives, come up with agreement to resolve boundary issue and create convergence forum with partner agencies that will serve as main characters in the resolution of the boundary disputes and other concerns of the ICCs/IPs.
