During the celebration, NCIP launched the Handbook on Carbon Trading for Ancestral Domains: Policies, Project Development in partnership with the Forest Foundation Philippines; the NCIP Hotline was also formally introduced to the agency’s stakeholders; and, the NCIP strengthened its partnership with FamilySearch International through a ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding.

 

The activities are anchored in strengthening policy advocacy, awareness-raising and cultural preservation innovations and developments that serves as mechanisms to uphold the rights and well-being of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in the country.

 

Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las in her message underscored the importance of collaboration among government agencies and stakeholders to work together to build a future where heritage is preserved, voices are heard, and rights are respected, especially for ICCs/IPs.

 

NCIP Executive Director Mervyn H. Espadero also emphasized the need to deepen the understanding of Indigenous Peoples cultures and contributions for a more inclusive future for ICCs/IPs.

Also present during the event were representatives from government agencies, NCIP Bureau and Regional Directors, division chiefs and staff.