THE National Commission for Indigenous Peoples-Davao Region (NCIP-Davao) announced that it will not be accepting new scholars due to budget cuts.
In a statement on January 14, 2024, NCIP-Davao explained that the reduced allocation leaves them unable to accommodate new applicants.
“We are doing our best to strategize and adjust the available funds to prioritize existing NCIP-EAP grantees,” the office said.
NCIP-Davao regional director lawyer Geroncio R. Aguio, noted in a January 9, 2025 interview with SunStar Davao that while funds are limited, the program will continue to support remaining scholars, ensuring not everyone is removed.
The NCIP experienced a significant P400 million budget cut in the 2025 GAA, with NCIP-Davao’s allocation reduced by P15 million, severely affecting services to Indigenous Communities (ICs).
The central office is conducting an agency-wide review to secure the status of existing grantees.
NCIP-Davao also addressed concerns over misinformation circulating on social media, where netizens shared unsanctioned posts with added personal details. The office clarified that these posts were not authorized and apologized for any confusion caused.
“NCIP remains committed to delivering its mandate of recognizing, protecting, and promoting indigenous people’s rights, regardless of budget constraints, dahil ang Katutubo at Ako Ay Iisa,” the statement added. RGP
The office underscored that its official updates aim to raise public awareness and are not intended to malign any individuals or groups, public or private. RGP