For generations, Indigenous Peoples (IPs) have been the original stewards of nature, protecting the Philippines’ rich biodiversity and ecosystems through their deep-rooted traditions and wisdom. However, a national platform to recognize and enhance their role in conservation has long been needed. The 1st Indigenous Political Structures (IPS) Congress, titled “Paghahabi ng mga Pangarap at Kinabukasan,” took place from November 26 to 29, 2024, at the Park Inn Hotel in Quezon City, marking a historic and unprecedented event.
The IPS Congress, co-organized by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), the Center for Conservation Innovations (CCI), and Bagong Pilipinas, in collaboration with the Forest Foundation Philippines and the Xavier Science Foundation, was a significant event that emphasized the vital role Indigenous communities play in environmental protection and sustainable development. Held in conjunction with October’s National Indigenous Peoples Month in the Philippines, the four-day event effectively concluded the celebrations by transforming recognition into meaningful action.
The Congress opened with a heartfelt invocation, cultural performances, and warm welcomes from key officials, including NCIP Chairperson Hon. Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las and CCIPH Operations Director Ms. Adryon Rozz Javier. Participants engaged in knowledge exchange sessions led by experts, workshops on strengthening governance structures, and discussions on community-led decision-making and resource management. Over six best-practice examples were documented, providing actionable insights for IPS representatives to adapt in their communities.
Dynamic sessions on resource mobilization and capacity-building highlighted the third day, with training on eco-enterprises and sustainable resource management equipping participants with skills to foster resilient communities. Cultural showcases featured traditional practices and storytelling, underscoring Indigenous groups’ rich heritage and deep connection with nature. The event culminated in a high-profile stakeholders’ forum attended by representatives from the NCIP, Forest Foundation Philippines, and other partners, where stakeholders pledged support for IP-led conservation efforts and outlined collaborative opportunities.
The Congress concluded with the adoption of a collective resolution and a digital compilation of participant testimonials, capturing transformative experiences and commitments. A position paper emphasizing the critical role of Indigenous Peoples in conservation was shared with policymakers and advocacy groups.
With its resounding success, the 1st IPS Congress amplified the voices of Indigenous communities and set a powerful precedent for future collaborations. As one participant remarked, “This Congress reminds us that the heart of conservation lies in the wisdom of Indigenous Peoples and the strength of their unity.” (MJC de Roma)
