By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff reporter
LAOAG CITY—In a gathering of Indigenous Peoples here, various IP organizations and tribal councils in Region 1 crafted and signed a manifesto of support to the proposed federal form of government being pushed under President Rodrigo Duterte administration.
According to Atty. Jesus Agbayani, Provincial Officer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples in Ilocos Norte said they convened a dialogue among the leaders and members of the Indigenous Cultural Communities here for them to fully understand the basic provisions of the federal system of government particularly and how this will create on impact on the lives of IPs.
“After a thorough study and exchange of ideas using our customary mode of decision-making, we are of the view that amendment of revision of the existing form of government is absolutely necessary to address the sad plight of the IPs and further strengthen the rights it already conferred to the ICCs/IPs,” said in the manifesto.
The IP leaders and elders said they are amenable in the amendment or revision of the constitution provided there is “full protection and promotion of IP rights and welfare.”
Under Article II, Section 22 of the 1987 Constitution, the state recognizes and promotes the rights of the ICCs within the framework of national government.
It also guarantees the recognition, respect and protection of their rights to develop their cultures, traditions and institutions.
Meanwhile, all local chief executives from the 21 towns and two cities in Ilocos Norte were also in favor of the proposed change in government.
With a federal form of government, provincial leaders are optimistic that economic growth will spread all throughout the country.