DSWD hosts IP month celebration

Tribal chieftains and members of various indigenous tribes in Central Visayas joined in the Indigenous People (IP) month celebration organized by the Department of Social Welfare Development (DSWD-7).

The event was designed to strengthen IP culture and to mainstream it in general sensitivity.

DSWD wanted to raise awareness to gender related issues including gender violence against men and women of the different tribal groups.

DSWD-7 Director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre told the indigenous members and participants the importance of coordination among other government agencies wherein the groups can wholly direct their concerns so they can take immediate action.

Macapobre believes that coordination from various government agencies with the cooperation of the indigenous groups would result to prompt actions. Also, she said that allowing IPs to have an access for the internal and external resources with a proper coordination from the government will improve their well-being.

"Nasayud kita nga importante ang panaghugpong sa mga ahensya sa gobyerno aron makahatag og sakto nga serbisyo," Macapobre said.

Macapobre also thanked the participating government agencies for the effort they have extended to help the indigenous people.

"Mapasalamaton ta sa uban nga mga ahensya sa gobyerno nga nitambong karon aron makahatag katinawan ug makadugang ug sakto nga kaalam sa inyo," Macapobre added.

A workshop presentation was led by the DSWD-7 wherein they discussed opportunities and possibilities for their community's development.

During the activity, it was discussed and explained the importance of giving birth in a health facility rather than having it in their household or 'banca' that has been part of their practice which was agreed on by IP members.

They see it as vital for acquiring medical care for child birth will lessen the risk of maternal and infant deaths. This will also help the IPs to have their newborn registered properly.

Participants to the workshop include the Badjao community from Dauis, Bohol and Mambaling, Cebu City, Ati Tribe from Loay, Bohol and the Eskaya Tribe.

DSWD partnered with the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Education (DepEd), PhilHealth, Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), and National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP).

The aforementioned national government agencies (NGAs) presented to the IP members their programs and services. —

Apple Grace C. Danuco/FPL

Members of the indigenous tribe perform a cultural dance in one of the activities in celebration of the Indigenous People's month.