On December 16, 2024, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. welcomed National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Chief Regina Panlilio during her courtesy visit at the Mayor’s Office Conference Room. Joining the visit was NCIP Chief Administrative Officer I, Lydia Sunggod. The meeting highlighted the city’s ongoing commitment to supporting the rights and welfare of the indigenous communities in Angeles City, particularly the Aeta community in Barangay Sapangbato.
Mayor Lazatin has been a strong advocate for the preservation and recognition of the indigenous culture and traditions, which led to the creation of the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) position in the Angeles City Council. This was the first time in the city’s history that such a position was established, a significant step toward ensuring that the indigenous peoples of Angeles City have a voice in the local government.
The Mayor expressed his enthusiasm for this development, emphasizing the importance of preserving the unique biodiversity of the Aeta community, whose way of life relies heavily on their intimate knowledge of nature. The indigenous knowledge, innovations, and practices of the Aeta people have long been integral to the environmental and cultural fabric of the region.
In addition to the establishment of the IPMR position, Mayor Lazatin also initiated the creation of another key role: a barangay councilman in Barangay Sapangbato to represent the indigenous people. Carlos Salvador, elected by the city’s Aeta clan in Barangay Sapangbato, took on the role of IPMR in the city council, while Jun Jun Tolentino was elected as Barangay Kagawad of Barangay Sapangbato. These leadership roles were made possible through the provisions of Republic Act 8371, also known as the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997.
RA 8371 mandates that indigenous peoples be represented in all policy-making bodies and local legislative councils, ensuring that they have equal privileges as regular members of these bodies. This law is a critical step in empowering indigenous communities and ensuring that their rights and needs are properly addressed in the governance of the country.
Mayor Lazatin’s efforts reflect his ongoing dedication to promoting the inclusion of indigenous communities in local governance and development initiatives. By creating these positions, he is working to ensure that the voices of the Aeta people are heard in the decisions that affect their lives and their community.
The visit from NCIP Chief Regina Panlilio serves as a further endorsement of these efforts and underscores the city’s commitment to upholding the rights of indigenous peoples in Angeles City. Mayor Lazatin remains steadfast in his support for initiatives that enhance the well-being and representation of the Aeta community, ensuring that their rich heritage and culture continue to thrive.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
