Manila: Cheryll Bromeo Tabangay, the first Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Ilocos Norte, has secured her second term to represent indigenous cultural communities (ICCs) in the province. During an IP gathering attended by 92 selection bodies from 30 organizations, Tabangay was nominated unanimously by her fellow Tingguian tribe members of Nueva Era, with no rival candidate.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Ilocos Norte hail from the towns of Adams, Pagudpud, Dumalneg, Bangui, Vintar, Marcos, Dingras, Carasi, Solsona, and Nueva Era. In her acceptance speech, Tabangay expressed her gratitude to the selectors for their trust and confidence, assuring them that she will continue to be their voice in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the provincial government.
The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples facilitated the election process, mirroring the procedure of the first IPMR election three years ago. The election involved open nomination with participation from selection bodies representing a majority of the Indigenous Peoples Organizations (IPOs). As an ex-officio board member, Tabangay committed to advocating for legislation that advances IP rights and welfare, with a particular focus on promoting quality education for IP children and providing decent homes through the government's affordable housing program.
Local guidelines, formulated by the IPs themselves, stipulate that nominees must be bona fide members of the IP community, speak the dialect they represent, be law-abiding, have no political party affiliation, and not be related to any incumbent elected official up to the second degree of affinity. Under Republic Act No. 8371 (Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act of 1998), ICCs have the right to participate fully in all levels of decision-making in matters affecting their rights, lives, and destinies, through procedures they determine. The same law mandates mandatory representation in policy-making bodies and other local legislative councils.
