Speaker Dy backs stronger emergency response, representation for Indigenous Peoples

House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III has expressed support for proposed measures aimed at strengthening emergency response mechanisms and institutional representation for Indigenous Peoples (IPs), stressing the need to ensure that vulnerable communities are not left behind during times of crisis and calamity.

“Kailangan nating siguraduhin na walang sinuman ang maiiwan, lalo na ang ating mga Indigenous Peoples na kadalasan ay nasa malalayong komunidad at mas vulnerable kapag may kalamidad o sakuna,” said the Speaker.

“Mahalaga ang mabilis, maayos, at organisadong pagtugon para agad makarating ang tulong sa kanila.”

In a meeting with officials of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), the Speaker was briefed on the need to institutionalize a dedicated quick response mechanism for Indigenous Peoples, 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 Indigenous Peoples 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.

“Habang pinag-aaralan natin ang institutional mechanisms, maaari nating simulan agad ang mas maayos na koordinasyon at data gathering para mas mabilis silang maabot at matulungan kapag may krisis,” Dy said.

The NCIP also raised the need to strengthen the implementation of consultative mechanisms that would ensure broader Indigenous Peoples representation 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.

“Hindi sapat na minsan lamang natin sila pinakikinggan. Kailangang may tunay at tuluy-tuloy na representasyon ang ating mga Indigenous Peoples sa policymaking process dahil mahalaga ang kanilang pananaw, karanasan, at kontribusyon sa ating bansa,” the Speaker said.

Dy 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. (RM)