QUEZON CITY — During the National Indigenous Peoples Day and International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples on Friday, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) affirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and autonomy of Indigenous Peoples (IP) who live in voluntary isolation or are in the initial stages of contact with the broader world.
According to Philippines News Agency, this year’s theme, 'Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact,' emphasizes the collective responsibility of all societal sectors to uphold the dignity and autonomy of these communities. Sibug-Las highlighted the vulnerabilities of these groups, stressing that their decision to remain isolated should be respected and protected from external threats. "These communities have chosen isolation as a way to preserve their way of life, languages, and traditions, showcasing their deep environmental connections and knowledge of sustainable living," Sibug-Las explained.
The NCIP also introduced several initiatives to support these efforts, including the launch of the "Handbook on Carbon Trading for Ancestral Domains: Policies, Project Development, Standards and Safeguards." This guide, developed in partnership with the Forest Foundation Philippines, aims to empower indigenous communities by providing them with knowledge and tools to engage in carbon trading while ensuring the protection of their lands and cultures.
Additionally, the NCIP has established a hotline to facilitate swift communication and assistance for the Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs). This service connects ICCs/IPs directly with various government agencies and institutions for immediate support regarding their concerns.
The NCIP hotline operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and can be reached at landline +632 8928 6247 or mobile numbers 0927-0011168 (Globe) and 0962-3986640 (Smart), ensuring a dedicated resource for indigenous communities to safeguard their rights and interests.