House Speaker Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III on Thursday expressed support for proposed measures aimed at strengthening emergency response mechanisms and institutional representation for Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
In a statement, the seasoned legislator from Isabela stressed the need to ensure that vulnerable communities are not left behind during times of crisis and calamity.
“We must ensure that no one is left behind, especially our Indigenous Peoples, who are often in remote communities and are more vulnerable when calamities or disasters strike,” Dy said in mostly Tagalog.
“A quick, orderly, and organized response is essential so that aid can reach them immediately,” he added.
In a meeting with officials of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Dy was briefed on the need to institutionalize a dedicated quick response mechanism for IPs, particularly during calamities, disasters, and other emergencies.
The NCIP noted that while indigenous communities are among the most vulnerable sectors during crises, there is currently no specific legal framework mandating a focused quick response system for IPs.
Dy acknowledged the importance of the proposal, saying indigenous communities, especially those in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, often face delays in accessing relief and government assistance during emergencies.
As an immediate recommendation while legislative measures are being prepared, Dy suggested that the NCIP begin collating and consolidating the names and profiles of IPs nationwide for submission to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The Speaker said such a database could help government agencies identify IP beneficiaries more quickly and ensure they are prioritized for assistance during emergencies and disasters.
“As we study the institutional mechanisms, we can immediately begin better coordination and data gathering, so that we can reach them faster and help them when there is a crisis,” Dy said.
The NCIP also raised the need to strengthen the implementation of consultative mechanisms that would ensure broader representation of IPs in policymaking processes at both the local and national levels.
Dy expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of giving indigenous communities a stronger voice in government discussions and decisions that directly affect their welfare, ancestral domains, culture, and future.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the House of Representatives to support measures that promote inclusion, protect vulnerable communities, and strengthen disaster preparedness and response systems across the country.
