Indigenous Peoples Representative Installed in Isabela Municipal Council
BACOLOD CITY – In a historic move, Teresita Sinceda, a member of the Indigenous Peoples (IP), was recently installed as a new member of the municipal council of Isabela in Negros Occidental. This groundbreaking event marks the first representation of the IP community in the Visayas region.
National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Commissioner Jeorge Largado congratulated Sinceda on her new role. He emphasized the significance of this appointment for the Ati community. Sinceda’s induction took place on Wednesday, October 4, at the IP Month celebration and 26th IP Rights Act commemoration held at the town gymnasium.
With Mayor Irene Montilla presiding, Sinceda took her oath of office in the presence of NCIP Director Ana Burgos and Commissioner Largado. As a cultural master of Marikudo and an IP municipal representative, Sinceda expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve her fellow IPs in Isabela.
Commissioner Largado clarified that Sinceda’s term would be similar to an elected official, lasting three terms. However, unlike elected officials, IP representatives are chosen through a selection process that does not coincide with local elections.
During the event, Certificates of Affirmation (COAs) were awarded to eight other IP municipal representatives, highlighting their crucial role in the town’s development. Commissioner Largado commended Mayor Montilla for her support of IP communities and acknowledged the importance of giving a voice to the IP community.
Sinceda shared her joy at the chance to serve her fellow IPs in the town and emphasized the significance of having a platform to voice their concerns and sentiments to the council. Isabela is home to eight IP barangays, with a population of approximately 10,000.
This landmark appointment of an IP representative signals a positive step towards inclusivity and recognition of the IP community’s contributions and rights in the Municipality of Isabela, Negros Occidental.
