TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN – In celebration of culture, resilience and empowerment, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 2 (DSWD FO2) took the center stage as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) recently held the awarding ceremonies for the five (5) activities which recognize and honor Indigenous Cultural Community (ICC) and 4Ps beneficiaries.
The event which was held on November 20, 2023 at Robinsons Place Tuguegarao, served as a culmination of the different advocacy initiatives namely, IPaMaNa (IP ang yaMan ng Nasyon): Search for Model IP Community 2023, SIKLAB (SSI ang Kaagapay sa pagsuLong at pag-Angat ng Buhay): Search for Outstanding Pantawid SSI Associations, Search for Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya and Search for Pantawid Pamilya Exemplary Child, and Ovovug: Ngaral nah Katutubong Abbing- Online Spoken Poetry Contest.
In his opening message, Assistant Regional Director for Operations Franco Lopez emphasized the integral role of 4Ps, saying that “it goes beyond financial assistance. 4Ps is a platform for empowerment, education, and community building. Today’s awardees represent the embodiment of these principles, serving as inspiration for others to follow.”
Empowering IPs: IPaMaNa’s Champions Crowned
At the forefront of the accolades was the IPAMANA which aims to empower IP communities to be champions of their own causes. This activity has been an ongoing initiative since 2019, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples to the nation.
The top spot was awarded to Ibaloi Tribe of Bulala in Dupax Del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya. Their exemplary dedication to preserving their cultural identity and implementing sustainable practices impressed the judges, making them the champions of the Model IP Community 2023.
Meanwhile the Agta Tribe of Casambalangan in Sta. Ana, Cagayan notched the second place, followed by the Calinga Tribe of Ibujan in San Mariano, Isabela as third placer; and the Ayangan Tribe of Ifugao Village in Diffun, Quirino who claimed the fourth spot.
These IP communities also presented the culture, tradition and native dishes through the IPINAGHAIN cook fest with the Ibujans besting the four tribes.
Recognizing Outstanding Pantawid SSI Associations
The event also featured the SIKLAB award which aims to acknowledge the outstanding performance of Pantawid Associations, emphasizing their collective efforts in ensuring the improvement and sustainability of projects, particularly in the vital area of livelihoods.
The Cabarroguis Integrated Livelihood Association of Cabarroguis, Quirino, secured the regional winner title, showcasing their dedication to advancing sustainable development. Following closely, the Angat Buhay SLPA of Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya claimed the second spot, with the Active Movement Association of San Mariano, Isabela securing the third position, and the Masagana Hog Raising Association of Gattaran, Cagayan earning the well-deserved fourth place.
Honoring Exemplary 4Ps households and youth
The event also spotlighted the Search for Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya and Search for Pantawid Pamilya Exemplary Child awards. These honors were bestowed upon exemplary beneficiaries of the 4Ps, recognizing individuals who not only excel within their communities but can also serve as ambassadors for the program. Constantino Family of Sanchez Mira, Cagayan was champion of the Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya while Razhnye Faith Grospe of Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya was emrged as exemplary child regional winner.
Finally, the Ovovug spoken poetry winners were revealed with Jasmine Rose Napa winning the Solo category and Quezon National High School for the group performance.
All winners received cash prizes and plaque of recognition from the Field Office.
Said activities were conducted through the support of the different local government units, government and non-government organizations like the Department of Trade and Industry, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Commission on Population and Development, Philippine Information Agency and the Northern Forum.
##Mitchie Grace C. Sibbaluca