30 JANUARY 2024 | In order to iron out concerns regarding the nomination of the Tabon Cave Complex and all of Lipuun Point as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and level off on the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ rights, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) under the leadership of Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las; the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines (UNACOM) led by Secretary-General Ivan Anthony S. Henares; the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) headed by Director-General Jeremy R. Barns; and, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) represented by Ms. Vanessa Nicolas, convened in a meeting organized by the NCIP Office on Education, Culture, and Health (OECH).

The Tabon Cave Complex stands as a testament to the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Philippines. Its significance spans not only across archaeological importance but also encapsulates the diverse cultural heritage of the country.

NCIP Regional Office MIMAROPA shared the map of the area inhabited by the Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) and the Community Resolution by the Pala’wan ICCs/IPs favoring the proposed nomination. Further, NCIP RO IV-B provided clarifications on issues concerning the existing unified CADT and CALT claim in the area.

Subsequently, the NCIP Legal Affairs Office (LAO) presented NCIP’s position paper on the matters raised during the previous virtual meeting. Lastly, NCIP Ancestral Domains Office (ADO) gave a summary on the approval process of a CADT application.

In conclusion, the NCIP, UNACOM, NMP, and NCCA along with the other concerned agencies agreed to find mutual ground to address concerns. Such decision may result in a Joint Management Agreement between the Pala’wan ICCs/IPs of Palawan, NCIP and the NMP. Succeeding collaborations will be conducted to finalize the matter.