ALREADY struggling with lack of access to basic services and adequate medical care, the vulnerabilities of indigenous peoples (IPs) living in remote and isolated areas far from the urban sector of the country have been exacerbated by the onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic, greatly affecting their livelihood, education, and general well-being.
As a reflection of the country’s rich history and diverse cultures, indigenous peoples or the "katutubo" hold vital ancestral knowledge, traditions and practices significant to the development of communities, conservation of the environment and its unique biodiversity, and adaptation to climate and disaster risks, upon which every Filipino depend on.
Staying true to its mission in championing public safety and empowering every Filipino family, Patrol Partylist, under the stalwart leadership of Congressman Jorge “Patrol” Bustos, reached out to the country’s IP communities through the provision of basic necessities and protection from this pandemic.
Patrol Partylist recently turned over 1,000 pieces of canned goods, 100 sacks of rice, 120 pieces of toys, and over 250 boxes of personal protective equipment to the IP community of Barangay Inararo, Porac, Pampanga. Graciously receiving the donations was the Secretary of the Indigenous People Community of Barangay Inararo, Annabelle Baclay.
In fulfillment of his promise to forge safer and more secure communities for all families leading to a stronger republic for all Filipinos, Bustos extended his recognition to indigenous peoples.
“Kilo-kilometrong layo man ang kailangang tahakin, ating sisiguraduhin na sila ay mararating, dahil sila ang mukha ng ating kasaysayan at kultura at nagsisilbing pangunahing tagapangalaga ng likas na yaman ng bansa, at bubuo ng mas matatag at maunlad Pilipinas," Bustos said.
As a committed partner to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go's "Ituloy ang Pagbabago" initiative, Patrol Partylist, continuously strives for excellence in pursuit of real and meaningful change for our nation. (Chris Navarro)