Sarangani holds Indigenous Peoples Summit to strengthen local governance

 

The Provincial Government of Sarangani successfully hosted the Sarangani Indigenous Peoples Summit & Capacity Building for Barangay IPMRs on May 1-2, 2025, at Greenleaf Hotel, General Santos City.

With the theme "Enhancing Indigenous Peoples' Right to Self-Determination: Strengthening Local Governance and Cultural Integrity," the event aimed to reinforce Sarangani’s Indigenous Political Structure. Over 200 Indigenous Peoples (IP) leaders, including Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) and tribal chieftains from seven municipalities across Sarangani Province, participated in the two-day summit.

In his address, Governor Rogelio D. Pacquiao reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Indigenous Peoples through the implementation of the Sarangani IP Code. He highlighted key initiatives under his administration, including the establishment of a permanent Division Office for Indigenous Peoples, in line with the Indigenous Peoples Welfare and Development Division (IPWDD) mandate.

“I have already begun fulfilling the implementation of the Sarangani IP Code under my administration. We are taking concrete steps to institutionalize support for our Indigenous brothers and sisters,” he stated.

A significant development under his leadership is Executive Order No. 18, Series of 2022, which provides honorariums to tribal chieftains in recognition of their vital role in community development and maintaining peace and order.

“You are the source of strength for the tribe—the guardians of our culture and nature and the true voice of the Indigenous people,” said Provincial Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Makabatug Arman U. Guili.

“Under your leadership, we will continue to protect our heritage, language, traditions, and the pursuit of justice for both our elders and youth. Let us unite, collaborate, and remain steadfast in defending our rights,” he added.

The summit was led by the PIPMR Office, in partnership with the Provincial Governor’s Office—Sarangani Indigenous Peoples Resiliency and Advancement (PGO-SIPRA) program, the Sarangani Provincial Tribal Council (SPTC), and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP).

This gathering marked a significant milestone in Sarangani’s Indigenous Peoples' journey toward empowerment, representation, and sustainable development, ensuring that they are not only seen but heard, valued, and supported.

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