21 years since the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997 was signed, our Indigent brothers and sisters work tirelessly to have their identity recognized. AdZU Center for Community Extension Services (CCES), in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), in acknowledgement of the strides that the community has taken towards inclusive development, organized this year’s Kolodyaan II, a celebration of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Zamboanga.
The event focused on celebrating the individualities and strengths of each tribe. Held last October 27-28, 2018 at Campo Uno Tribal Hall, Kolodyaan II was attended by the five (5) recognized tribes in Zamboanga City including, the Sama Bangingis from Simariki, Subanen from Monte Central, Campo Uno and Limpapa, Bajaus, Yakans from Manicahan and Kalibugans.
With the theme Pagpapalakas ng Pagkakakilanlan at Kaugalian ng mga Katutubong Pamayanan tungo sa Pagkakaisa at Kapayapaan, this year’s Kolodyaan highlighted the importance of recognizing the IP tribes, their rich cultures, unparalleled talents and resources, and invaluable contributions to society.
Highlights of the stay-in celebration included cultural presentations from the different tribes including the Mongigal and Gandingans. In the evening, different activities showcasing the talents of the IPs were held including the poem writing contest, Indigenous Knowledge and Practices Exhibit contest, sharing of cultural folklores, and more.
The celebration was supported by different agencies and individuals including the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMR), local government of Patalon, Limpapa and Labuan, Philippine News Agency, Labuan Police Station, Labuan Central School, 11th Infantry Battalion, Labuan Coastguard, Zamboanga Ecozone, Limpapa Central School, NCIP, the different IPMRs, Labuan Patalon Limpapa Indigenous Cultural Communities (LPICC), and more.
AdZU has been committed to the mission of forming leaders who will work for social transformation. Kolodyaan I, which centered on community-based education, was the first step towards fulfilling this mission. With Kolodyaan II, AdZU wishes to fulfill its vision of addressing needs in community development, intercultural dialogue, and the common good.
