TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan- To be able to address the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) needs and concerns properly, Governor Manuel N. Mamba here said he wants IPs to participate in local governance under his administration.
During the 2016 Indigenous People’s Summit held here recently, the governor vowed to look into the issues and concerns raised by the various IP groups all over the region by encouraging them to participate in local governance.
Mamba said he will give IPs the right to participate voluntarily and let their voices be heard at all levels especially on decision-making in the province that may affect their rights, privileges and heritage.
Mamba said the creation of the province’s Task Force for Equal Opportunities, in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) will help boost the representation of the IPs.
The task force provides equal opportunities to all sectors including the IPs to participate in local governance and other development activities, Mamba said.
Mamba added that the assistance of various regional line agencies and other sectors to address the IPs’ concerns will also be needed. Julius Catulin/-Northernforum.net
