On August 9, 2024, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People was commemorated at Impalambong, Malaybalay. In an event hosted by the Commission on Indigenous Peoples in the Diocese of Malaybalay, in partnership with Mindanao Climate Justice (MCJ). This annual event celebrates the significance of Indigenous Peoples’ continued existence, supports their fight for climate justice and their rights, and offers hope for a better, brighter, greener future.
Indigenous peoples represent our last, formidable defense in preserving the mountain landscapes that sustain us—our forests, water sources, and biodiversity. Mindanao, known as the Philippines’ final frontier, is home to the country’s largest Indigenous population, with approximately 63% of the total Indigenous Peoples (IP) population, comprising 18 Lumad tribes. These communities continue to fight to protect their ancestral lands, drawing upon deep-rooted knowledge of sustainable practices embedded in their culture to conserve our biodiversity and natural resources.
The day began in a solemn manner with rituals led by Indigenous community elders, including Fr. Art Paraiso and Fr. Cris Aninloy, who offered prayers and solidarity messages. Following this, opening remarks and warm welcomes were given by Archbishop Jose Cabantan of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro and retired Bishop Jose Manguiran from the Diocese of Dipolog.
In the afternoon, Atty. Kaloy Zarate, former chairperson of the Union of Peoples’ Lawyers in Mindanao (UPLM), delivered a presentation on the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) and the ongoing work in Congress related to Indigenous laws. Next, Ms. Beverly Longid, co-convenor of the International Indigenous Peoples Movement for Self-Determination and Liberation (IPMSDL), provided metalegal advice, affirming the steps Indigenous communities are taking to reclaim their land rights and sharing how similar strategies have been successful in other parts of the world.
IP teacher Joan was a gracious and adaptable host, maintaining the crowd’s energy throughout the day. Despite the acoustic challenges posed by heavy rains that began in the late afternoon, and a brief power outage, Joan kept the atmosphere lively with a stretching activity, light-hearted jokes, and relatable anecdotes.
Breakout sessions followed, focusing on the issues faced by the Kiantig, Sinandigan, and Minalitra tribes. These sessions provided an in-depth analysis of land grabbing, human rights violations, and other challenges faced by Indigenous communities while affirming Indigenous rights and charting paths forward. The discussions were led by the communities themselves, with leaders like Datu Rolando Anglao sharing narratives of ongoing attacks on their communities by both government forces and private corporations, and how they continue to defend their lands with unity, strength, and wisdom.
Sr. Zeny Gene Amar of the Medical Mission Sisters (MMS) delivered heartfelt closing remarks, expressing gratitude with emphasis on the privilege of standing alongside Indigenous Peoples in the fight for their rights today. The event concluded on a high note with a cultural night filled with traditional songs, dances, and moments of shared laughter in solidarity with all our beloved Indigenous communities.
