08 January 2024 | The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) conducted its 1st Flag Raising Ceremony of the year via Zoom platform, hosted by NCIP-Region IVA.
The ceremony was an opportunity to highlight the first 100 days of Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las with the NCIP Workforce, which featured the implementation of programs, activities and projects geared to uplift the socio-economic status of ICCs/IPs; ensure approval of the NCIP 2024 budget; prioritization of peace efforts in ICCs; promoting the importance of culture, customs and traditions in keeping the identity of ICCs/IPs; and fostering stronger partnership among stakeholders.
In her message, Chairperson Sibug-Las emphasized the 4 Gs: GRATITUDE, GOD’S GRACE, GOODNESS and GROWTH, as the guiding principles to achieve the goals of the NCIP for 2024. Further, she called for the continued commitment and dedication within the NCIP to continually uphold the welfare and well-being of ICCs/IPs and make certain that their rights are respected, recognized, protected and promoted.
As part of highlighting cultural practices among Indigenous Cultural Communities / Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs), presentations particularly on IP games of ICCs/IPs in Region IV-A and Indigenous Knowledge, Systems and Practices of Dumagat/Remontado of General Nakar, Quezon and Ayat of Tayabas, Quezon were also shown during the ceremony.
A tribute video for Commissioner Allen A. Capuyan was also shown during the ceremony as a sign of appreciation and gratitude for his service to the NCIP and the ICCs/IPs in the country, during his term in the agency as former Chairperson and Ethnographic Commissioner for Regions XI and XIII.
