In response to the concern raised by Timuay Braulio Anlimon regarding the quarrying activities taking place within the ancestral domain of Labangan, the leaders have taken note of the matter and have already engaged with NCIP-9 and other relevant agencies to address the issue. Timuay Anlimon appealed for increased attention to the needs of IPs and urged officials to incorporate their perspectives into development plans, as IPs in Labangan and neighboring areas had seemingly been left behind in terms of progress.
The leaders acknowledged NCIP-9's challenges, such as staffing and funding constraints, but committed to seeking assistance and supporting the agency. They emphasized the significance of safeguarding their rights as IPs and improving their communities' livelihoods in their ancestral domains.
Timuay Nanding Mudai recognizes the crucial responsibility the government has entrusted to NCIP-9 and stands united in its resolve to support and defend it. While acknowledging that NCIP-IX is not without flaws, he stressed that any deficiencies lie not with the agency itself, but potentially with certain individuals.
“Kung mawala ang NCIP, masamot mi ug kalisud (If NCIP disappears, we will have more difficulties),” he added.
The forum served as a significant platform for Subanen IP leaders to voice their concerns and find common ground with NCIP-9. The leaders emphasized the need for collaboration, the revision of laws that may negatively impact their cultural heritage, and the equitable allocation of resources for the betterment of all IPs in the Zamboanga Peninsula. (NBE/EDT/HTB/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur)
