ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 31, 2025 — Mayor Khymer Olaso led the oath-taking ceremony of 11 newly certified Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) from various barangays of Zamboanga City on Thursday, held at the City Hall.
The ceremony marks a significant milestone in strengthening indigenous representation in local governance. The IPMRs were officially recognized and certified in accordance with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Administrative Order No. 01, Series of 2021. Their selection was validated by the NCIP Zamboanga City Office, ensuring that the process followed guidelines anchored in customary laws and Indigenous Political Structures (IPS).
“These representatives are the voice of our Indigenous Cultural Communities. Their presence in governance ensures that no one is left behind as we build a more inclusive and progressive Zamboanga,” Mayor Olaso said during the ceremony.
The newly certified IPMRs and their assigned barangays are as follows:
- Hon. Anibal A. Qurais – Talon-Talon
- Hon. Sattolnina G. Abba – Rio Hondo
- Hon. Mutalib A. Hamis – Labuan
- Hon. Jubail U. Buhaini – Taluksangay
- Hon. Farida A. Pandeng – Lamisahan
- Hon. Halima H. Hamja – Manalipa
- Hon. Jul A. Husin – Dita
- Hon. Peter G. Mandag – Ayala
- Hon. Sahdia S. Akbar – Calabasa
- Hon. Alih J. Daud – Tigtabon
- Hon. Ruel M. Diam – Tugbungan
Their certification affirms their eligibility to participate in local legislative councils and other development platforms, representing the interests and welfare of Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in their respective areas.
Also in attendance were Councilor Aida Paniorotan, the IP Representative in the City Council; Executive Assistant Abdulwakil Caoile Kasim; and officials from the NCIP.
The mayor reiterated the city government’s commitment to promoting inclusive and culturally sensitive governance that empowers all sectors, particularly Indigenous Peoples, in the development of Zamboanga City.