BOTOLAN, Zambales — Local government units in Zambales joined local indigenous people’s communities in the province in the celebrations of the National Indigenous Peoples Month, which falls in October.

In separate programs conducted here in Botolan on October 22, in San Felipe on October 27, and in San Marcelino on October 29, members of the Ayta tribe showcased their rich cultural heritage through songs, dances, and presentation of native customs and tribal knowledge, including bushcraft.

Local officials led by Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., Botolan Mayor Jun Omar Ebdane, San Felipe Mayor Hart Jeresano, and San Marcelino Mayor Elvis Soria joined the IP Month programs in solidarity with the Ayta communities and also provided token gifts to Ayta folks.

The provincial government also reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and cultural pride, and in ensuring that every indigenous group in Zambales continues to enjoy protection, support and genuine care from the government.

The “IP month” is celebrated in the Philippines under Presidential Proclamation No. 1906 in 2009. It is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the rights and cultural heritage of Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) in the country. 

The celebration also commemorated the passing of the landmark Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997 (Republic Act No. 8371), which provided for the protection of ancestral domains and lands, recognition of cultural integrity, the right to self-governance, and ensuring social justice and human rights for IPs.

The IPRA Law also created the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), which is tasked with implementing provisions of the IPRA Law. 