President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Friday pledged to respond to the needs of Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines as he joined them in the annual observance of the National Indigenous Peoples Day.
“Drawing from our genuine desire to provide them the honor they rightfully deserve, the government reassures its high regard for the indigenous peoples’ cultural integrity and commits to being responsive to their needs, especially in ways that would preserve their way of life,” the President said in his message.
The Chief Executive hailed the Indigenous Peoples as invaluable guardians of heritage and worthy protectors of lands and resources.
“Their unique spiritual beliefs and traditions, coupled with their symbiotic connection with nature, make them invaluable guardians of our heritage and worthy protectors of our lands and resources,” the President said.
“I am one with the entire nation in commemorating the National Indigenous Peoples Day in honor of our indigenous brothers and sisters who have contributed immensely to the vibrancy of our national tapestry,” he said.
The Chief Executive added that Filipinos are truly blessed to have such a distinct and lively roster of indigenous groups from the northern mountains of Luzon down to the southern islands of Mindanao.
“May the Bagong Pilipinas we are now building give rise to more harmonious relationships among different groups, sectors, and communities such that we are enriched by diversity yet are also united by our shared goal of establishing a more equitable, inclusive, and peaceful society,” the President said.
Republic Act No. 10689 stated that the National Indigenous Peoples Day shall be observed on August 9 of each year and is declared a special working holiday. | PND
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