DSWD Sec. Rex Gatchalian and NCIP Chairperson Allen A. Capuyan discuss ways to improve programs for Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in the country on April 12 at the NCIP Central Office in Quezon City. Photo from NCIP
Gatchalian, Capuyan to expand partnerships for welfare of ICCs/IPs
DEPARTMENT of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex T. Gatchalian and National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Chairperson Allen A. Capuyan explored further ways to improve the implementation of social protection programs for Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in the country.
During the visit of Gatchalian at the NCIP Central Office in Quezon City on Wednesday, April 12, Capuyan provided a brief orientation on the programs, future projects, and mandate of the NCIP, as well as the current landscape and situation of the ICCs/IPs in the Philippines.
Capuyan highlighted the operationalization of the 11 Building Blocks of Resilient, Responsive, and Relevant ICCs/IPs in Ancestral Domains and strengthening Indigenous Political Structure in the country’s ICCs/IPs.
Gatchalian commended the NCIP for its efforts and initiatives to attain these building blocks toward boosting the capabilities and potential of ICCs/IPs in nation-building. The Secretary, however, recommended focusing on and prioritizing the implementation of one building block to ensure significant impact and accomplishment in the medium term.
Both officials agreed to activate an Inter-Agency Management Committee among DSWD-supervised and attached agencies to develop relevant programs and policies that will ensure that the welfare and security of ICCs/IPs are respected, recognized, and protected. This initiative will open a platform for increased collaboration among the agencies.
The DSWD vowed to partner with the NCIP to uplift the lives and improve the well-being of the ICCs/IPs in the country through social protection efforts.
