In observance of Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month, the Angeles City Government, led by Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr., distributed ₱2,000 in kabuhayan assistance and five kilos of rice to 101 Aetas in Sitio Balaraw, Barangay Sapangbato, on October 24, 2024. This initiative is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to support and uplift the Indigenous community in the area.
The Gender and Development Office (GDO), headed by Mina Cabiles, took the lead in the distribution of the assistance, ensuring that the Aeta community received the much-needed aid. Cabiles expressed Mayor Lazatin’s commitment to ensuring that IP communities are well-supported and their welfare is protected, stating, “Sinisiguro po ni Mayor Lazatin na mahatiran ng tulong ang mga kababayan nating IP, at mapangalagaan ang kanilang kapakanan.”
The financial and food assistance aims to provide relief to the Aeta families, especially those in remote areas like Sitio Balaraw, where access to resources is limited. This initiative reflects the city’s dedication to bridging gaps and ensuring that marginalized sectors of the community receive adequate support.
Mayor Lazatin has long recognized the vital role of Indigenous Peoples in the development of Angeles City, particularly their contributions to environmental preservation. The Aetas’ role in protecting the local watershed is an integral part of the community’s sustainability, making their welfare a priority for the local government.
As part of the IP Month celebration, the distribution of aid is also a gesture of appreciation for the Aetas’ deep connection to the land and their cultural heritage. This highlights the city’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and recognizing the importance of preserving indigenous cultures and traditions.
The support provided to the Aeta community is a part of broader efforts by the Angeles City Government to empower its Indigenous residents and ensure their active participation in the city’s growth and progress. By recognizing their contributions, the city strengthens the bond between the local government and the Indigenous communities it serves.
In closing, Mayor Lazatin reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the IP community and working towards a more inclusive and prosperous Angeles City for all residents, regardless of their background. The distribution of kabuhayan assistance and rice to the Aetas is just one of many steps toward achieving this goal.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
