The Gaddang Indigenous Cultural Community (ICC) convened its first Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) Congress at the Carlos M. Padilla Convention Center on August 29-30, marking a significant milestone for the community. The congress, which aims to foster unity and enhance the welfare of the Gaddang tribe, saw participation from Gaddang ICC members not only from Nueva Vizcaya but also from Isabela, Ifugao, and Mountain Province.
The Gaddang IPS is notably the first to receive approval from the NCIP Commission En Banc in the Cagayan Valley region and the second in the entire country. This congress is set to outline strategic plans, programs, and projects designed to strengthen the unity and well-being of the Gaddang community.
Central to the congress discussions were topics such as the history of the tribe, the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA), IPS, Indigenous Peoples Organization, and the cultural significance of the Ancestral Domain. The role of the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative and the current challenges faced by the tribe were also key points of focus.
The Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, or Republic Act No. 8371, is a crucial piece of legislation in the Philippines that recognizes and protects the rights of Indigenous Peoples (IPs). It helps preserve their culture, ancestral lands, and self-governance. The late Gov. Carlos M. Padilla was one of the authors of the IPRA law during his tenure as a congressman.
In his message, Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito emphasized the provincial administration’s unwavering support for indigenous cultural communities. “Our administration will always extend a helping hand to our indigenous cultural communities. We recognize the invaluable contributions of the Gaddang tribe and other indigenous groups to our rich cultural heritage,” said Governor Gambito.
Governor Gambito also highlighted the unity forged between him and the late Governor Carlos M. Padilla upon their assumption to office in 2022. Despite being political opponents, they decided to unite for the benefit of Novo Vizcayanos. “Unity has been and continues to be my advocacy because I believe it is the key to the continuous development of our province,” Gambito stated. He also outlined his flagship programs for Nueva Vizcaya, focusing on sustainable development, improving healthcare services, enhancing educational opportunities, and boosting agricultural productivity.
The event was also graced by former Governor Ruth R. Padilla, who spoke about her program on revitalizing the culture and tradition of indigenous peoples through the IP Summer Workshop. “Through this initiative, we sought to instill pride in our young ones, enabling them to carry forward the legacy of their ancestors with confidence and reverence. It was a joy to see the young faces light up with pride and curiosity as they learned about their heritage,” Padilla shared. The program now institutionalized through an ordinance enacted by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan authored by Board Member Elma P. Lejao, is designed to teach children the beautiful dances, languages, and customs of their tribes. This program aims to pass down cultural knowledge and traditions to ensure they are never forgotten.
Board Member M. Roland Carub, a Gaddang himself, organized the two-day event as the Director General for the activity, in collaboration with the Nueva Vizcaya Gaddang Indigenous Peoples Organization headed by Marylinda Cutaran Ramos. Their leadership and dedication were instrumental in bringing together the Gaddang community for this significant gathering. Vice Mayor Ramon T. Cabauatan, also a member of the Gaddang ICC, was in attendance, further underscoring the strong support and representation within the local government.
The Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) is of paramount importance as it provides a formal and recognized framework for Indigenous governance. It allows indigenous communities to exercise self-determination, enabling them to manage their affairs under their customs, traditions, and systems of governance. The IPS promotes transparency, accountability, and participatory decision-making, ensuring that the voices of indigenous peoples are heard and respected in local and national governance. /rmi
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