DAVAO CITY — The Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MIPA), through its Special Public Assistance and Legal Aid Division (SPALAD), successfully held a three-day seminar-workshop aimed at advancing the rights of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The activity, titled “Advancing Indigenous Peoples’ Rights: Empowering Law Enforcers and Other Duty Bearers,” took place at The Mandaya Royal Hotel in Davao City from September 17 to 18, 2025. It was spearheaded by MIPA Minister Hon. Guiamal B. Abdurahman in partnership with The Asia Foundation (TAF).
Participants included members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Indigenous Peoples’ Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) from the provincial down to the municipal level, tribal leaders, and members of the Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) or Councils of Elders.
The seminar-workshop aimed to raise awareness and deepen understanding of the Bangsamoro Indigenous Peoples’ Act, ensuring its effective implementation among Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) and duty bearers. It also sought to strengthen the capacity of law enforcers and local leaders to fulfill their obligations in protecting IP rights.
In his opening message, Minister Abdurahman expressed gratitude to The Asia Foundation, guests, and participants, underscoring the importance of the activity in strengthening Indigenous communities. He stressed that safeguarding ancestral domains (Fusaka Inged), preserving Indigenous governance, and upholding customary laws and justice systems are vital to ensuring lasting protection for IPs.
TAF Country Representative Sam Chittik, in his message of support, lauded the initiative as a milestone for the recognition and protection of IP rights in BARMM. He reiterated TAF’s continued support for programs that empower Indigenous communities in the region.
The seminar concluded with a pledge of commitment signed by participants, affirming their united support to uphold and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples across the Bangsamoro Region.
However, the activity also raises a pressing question: will initiatives like these translate into concrete protection for Non-Moro Indigenous Peoples, who continue to face displacement, harassment, and even killings in conflict-affected areas of BARMM? The effectiveness of such interventions will be measured not only by policies on paper but also by their impact on the ground—especially in ensuring justice and safety for vulnerable communities whose voices are often sidelined.