16 April 2024 | Pursuing the full representation of the Philippines in the 23rd Session of the UNPFII, Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las shared the initiatives of NCIP relative to the support and development of Indigenous Peoples Youth.

On the second day of the 23rd session, continued discussion on the theme “Enhancing Indigenous Peoples’ right to self-determination in the context of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: emphasizing the voices of Indigenous youth” was conducted.

Also, Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las was given the opportunity to address the council to showcase the Philippine programs for Indigenous youth.

In her speech, Chairperson Sibug-Las shared a brief discussion about R.A 8371 or the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997 specifically the NCIP Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) program as a platform for the IP youth to voice out their concerns and achieve representation among local legislative bodies. Further, Chairperson Sibug-Las cited the Department of Education’s Indigenous People’s Education (IPEd) Program, as one of the government’s initiatives for the right of Indigenous Peoples to basic education.

Moreover, a brief information about the vulnerability of the IP youths to the recruitment of Non-State Armed Groups was also conveyed by the Chairperson. Institutionalized efforts of the Philippine government in addressing the said threats were underscored, emphasizing the story of determination and resilience of Bae Rurelyn Bay-Ao in her firsthand experience with the Violent Extremism Groups.

Lastly, Chairperson Sibug-Las called for the governments to continue empowering their youths by enabling them to actively participate in the process of attaining sustainable development.

Accompanying the Chairperson in this undertaking are Commissioner Atty. Rhodex P. Valenciano, Commissioner Atty. Pinky Grace Pareja, Commissioner Jeorge M. Largado, Commissioner Gaspar A. Cayat, Commissioner Simplicia P. Hagada, and Bae Rurelyn Bay-Ao.