Baguio city: Ancestral land holds deep cultural and familial significance for the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of the Ibaloi tribe. It represents their heritage, identity, and legacy, passed down through generations. The Ibaloi tribe members assert their territorial claims with a sense of unity, as Maximo Edwin, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Baguio City, emphasized during the Ibaloi Day celebration held at Melvin Jones Football field.
According to Philippines News Agency, Edwin, who represents the Ibaloi tribe and IPs of Baguio in the city council, expressed mixed emotions regarding the ongoing struggle for the recognition of their ancestral lands. He highlighted that while the national government acknowledges the existence of the tribe, the journey towards securing their land rights remains a significant challenge. The recent issuance of Proclamation 1125-2026 by Malaca±ang, declaring Feb. 23 as a non-working day in Baguio City, has brought national attention to the Ibaloi Day celebration, offering a platform for raising awareness about their cause.
Joanna Cari±o, a professor and researcher, shared insights into the historical context of Ibaloi land claims. She referenced the unresolved ancestral land claims that date back to the emergence of the doctrine of native title, highlighting the enduring struggle for recognition. Cari±o, a descendant of Mateo Cari±o-a prominent Ibaloi figure who successfully brought his land claim to the United States Supreme Court in 1909-emphasized the significance of Feb. 23 as a day of both celebration and commemoration of the Doctrine of Native Title.
The Ibaloi Day celebration, which has grown over the years from a modest gathering to a nationally recognized event, serves as a testament to the resilience and cultural richness of the Ibaloi tribe. Edwin expressed hope that future celebrations would extend beyond Baguio City, encompassing the province of Benguet and parts of Nueva Vizcaya, regions where the Ibaloi people have historical roots and continue to thrive.
