Witnessing the Growth of Indigenous Leaders

After nearly four years with the Assisi Development Foundation (ADF), I have witnessed firsthand its profound impact on the growth of indigenous leaders and their communities in Himamaylan City. As a Community Facilitator for the Partnerships with Indigenous Peoples (PIP) Program, a collaboration between ADF and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Himamaylan, I have seen remarkable transformation in the lives of many community members.

Before the PIP Program, many indigenous leaders, especially those in remote areas, had limited access to training and exposure activities. Their awareness of their rights and responsibilities was low, and they lacked confidence and motivation to lead their communities. Without a clear vision or structured plans, their organizations struggled to address the needs and aspirations of their people.

ADF’s partnership provided these leaders with opportunities to acquire new knowledge and skills through leadership training. They became more aware of their rights under the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) and more assertive in securing their mandatory representation in local governance, ensuring free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) for incoming projects, and advocating for the recognition of their ancestral domain and decision-making processes.

As their understanding of project management deepened, the leaders took a more active role in planning, monitoring, and assessing community initiatives. Through evaluation and planning workshops, they developed action plans and created a messenger chat group to report project activities and share updates on their vegetable gardens and seedling nurseries.

Regular consultations and planning sessions, supported by ADF and the LGU, enabled indigenous leaders to voice their concerns and aspirations directly to local government officials. Many of their requests were addressed, particularly those related to partnership projects. While some services, such as transportation for farm inputs and construction materials for school repairs, were not always immediately available, the LGU remained responsive to their needs. As a result, the partnership with ADF strengthened the relationship between indigenous leaders and the city government.

These positive developments have reinforced our appreciation in the LGU for ADF’s commitment, dedication, and transparency in supporting indigenous communities. ADF has not only influenced local leaders but has also inspired government officials to enhance services for marginalized communities, especially those in remote areas.

On behalf of my colleagues at the Himamaylan City LGU, I extend my deepest gratitude to ADF for this meaningful and transformative partnership. It has been a privilege to contribute to the empowerment of indigenous communities, and I hope this initiative will continue to uplift other vulnerable groups across the country.