NCIP Davao Oriental

01/04/2026

📢 Field-Based Validation Activity re: DPWH Construction of Road Project (Barangay Pintatagan, Banaybanay, Davao Oriental to Barangay Napnapan, Pantukan, Davao De Oro) | March 31, 2026

The NCIP Davao Oriental Provincial Office conducted the Field-Based Validation (FBV) Activity on March 31, 2026, in relation to the DPWH Construction of Road Project connecting Barangay Pintatagan, Banaybanay, Davao Oriental to Barangay Napnapan, Pantukan, Davao De Oro. The activity covered the ancestral domain of the Mandaya Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) in Banaybanay, Davao Oriental and forms part of the required processes under the Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC).

The activity commenced with an opening prayer led by Danilo Sugpatan, followed by the welcome message of Janice Arado, IPMR of Barangay Panikian. The rationale of the activity was presented by Edwin D. Padilla, Provincial Officer, setting the context and importance of the Field-Based Validation within the FPIC process. This was followed by the presentation of the proposed project by the DPWH 2nd District Engineering Office, providing details on the scope, alignment, and implementation of the road construction.

An open forum and discussion was facilitated by Atty. James Ian A. Generale, allowing community members, particularly the Mandaya ICCs/IPs, to raise concerns, seek clarifications, and provide inputs regarding the proposed project. The presentation of the FPIC process was subsequently delivered by Edwin D. Padilla, Provincial Officer, outlining the procedures, safeguards, and rights of the Indigenous Peoples in relation to the project.

The validation proper focused on document review, community consultations, and coordination with concerned stakeholders to determine the presence of ICCs/IPs within the project area and assess the potential impacts on their ancestral domain. Relevant data, records, and testimonies were gathered to support the validation process, with active participation from Mandaya elders, leaders, and community representatives.

The activity concluded with a closing message from Leonilo Pacay, Municipal Tribal Chieftain, emphasizing unity and the protection of ancestral domain rights, followed by a synthesis of discussions and clarification of the next steps under the FPIC process. The NCIP reiterates its commitment to uphold the rights of ICCs/IPs while supporting inclusive and sustainable development.

NCIP Region 11
NCIP Region 11 - Cateel, Davao Oriental Community Service Center
NCIP Region 11 - Davao Oriental - Manay Community Service Center
NCIP Davao Region Community

31/03/2026

📢 NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

In compliance with NCIP RXI Memorandum Order No. 138, Series of 2026, please be advised of the following schedule:

🗓️ APRIL 1, 2026 (WEDNESDAY)

WILL BE A WORK-FROM-HOME ARRANGEMENT

Reason: In anticipation of increased travel during the Holy Week and to promote energy conservation, all NCIP RXI offices will implement a Work-From-Home Arrangement on April 1, 2026 (Wednesday).

Stay Connected: Communication channels remain open. You may reach us through:

Email: [email protected]

Please be guided accordingly. Keep safe and have a meaningful Holy Week observance!

NCIP Region 11
NCIP Region 11 - Cateel, Davao Oriental Community Service Center
NCIP Region 11 - Davao Oriental - Manay Community Service Center
NCIP Davao Region Community

26/03/2026

IEC & Data Gathering Activity for the Mandaya of San Isidro CADT Application
March 23-25, 2026

The NCIP Davao Oriental Provincial Office conducted an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activity with data gathering in support of the CADT application of the Mandaya ICCs/IPs of San Isidro. The activity focused on gathering proofs such as historical accounts and elders’ testimonies, while also informing the community about the importance and process of securing ancestral domain rights.

The activity opened with a prayer led by Bae Estela Sajul and welcome remarks from Mangkatadong Victor M. Serrano, Sr. Messages of support were shared by Hon. Flaviano B. Limen, Jr., Hon. Marilyn Orito, and Mr. Brine Dumdum, while the activity rationale was presented by Mr. Edwin D. Padilla, OIC/Provincial Officer.

Key discussions included the IPRA Law presented by Atty. James Ian Generale, land status updates by Engr. Jhonuan Lex S. Gaputan, and the Mount Hamiguitan map presentation by Mr. Jay Lord Balondo. The sessions, including the delineation process and action planning, were facilitated by Mr. Jomar Ike Capalit with active participation from the community.

Led by Municipal Tribal Chieftain Merilyn Jumarito, the Mandaya ICCs/IPs confirmed and expanded the proposed ancestral domain coverage from the original four (4) barangays—Sto. Rosario, La Union, Maputi, and Talisay—to a total of twelve (12) barangays with the inclusion of Baon, Sudlon, San Miguel, Bato-bato, Maag, Bitaogan, San Roque, and Manikling. Mangkatadong Lyman B. Buenaflor was designated as CADT Representative, with Bae Cristina Bacon Jumarito as Assistant. The activity concluded with closing remarks and prayer, reinforcing the collective effort to protect Mandaya ancestral lands.

NCIP Region 11
NCIP Region 11 - Cateel, Davao Oriental Community Service Center
NCIP Region 11 - Davao Oriental - Manay Community Service Center
NCIP Davao Region Community

12/03/2026

𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐄 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐔𝐁𝐋𝐈𝐂
In compliance with the directives of Memorandum Circular No. 114, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples – Region XI informs the public that, effective March 9, 2026 (Monday), the Regional Office, Provincial Offices and Community Service Centers will implement a four-day on-site workweek (Monday-Thursday).

Under this arrangement, onsite hours will be from Monday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while Fridays will be observed as mandatory work-from-home day for NCIP RXI personnel and staff.

To ensure the continued delivery of public service, clients may still reach NCIP Region XI, its Provincial Offices and Community Service Centers through its official online platforms. ([email protected] )

The public is advised to schedule their visits and transactions accordingly.

𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐄 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐔𝐁𝐋𝐈𝐂

In compliance with the directives of Memorandum Circular No. 114, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples – Region XI informs the public that, effective March 9, 2026 (Monday), the Regional Office, Provincial Offices and Community Service Centers will implement a four-day on-site workweek (Monday-Thursday).

Under this arrangement, onsite hours will be from Monday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while Fridays will be observed as mandatory work-from-home day for NCIP RXI personnel and staff.

To ensure the continued delivery of public service, clients may still reach NCIP Region XI, its Provincial Offices and Community Service Centers through its official online platforms.

The public is advised to schedule their visits and transactions accordingly.

23/01/2026

𝐃𝐀𝐕𝐀𝐎 𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐎𝐔𝐒 𝐏𝐄𝐎𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐁𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐍-𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐈𝐏 𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑, 𝐀𝐃𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓

𝑫𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒐 𝑶𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒍 - The turn-over of the Provincial IP Center on 21 January 2026 marks the realization of a long-awaited dream of the Indigenous Peoples of Davao Oriental—a tangible symbol of recognition, unity, and empowerment. This milestone affirms the rightful place of IPs in provincial governance by providing a dedicated space for preservation, protection, and promotion of the rights and welfare of the indigenous peoples. The Center stands as a safe and accessible venue for dialogue, cultural activities, consultations, and community assemblies, strengthening collective identity while ensuring that IP concerns are heard and addressed within institutional processes.

As a governance hub, the Provincial IP Center plays a vital role in enhancing IP participation in policymaking, coordination, and program implementation. It supports transparent leadership, effective service delivery, and closer collaboration among IP organizations, government agencies, and development partners. More importantly, it opens doors to opportunities for capacity-building and development and partnerships that promote inclusive growth while upholding indigenous knowledge systems, rights, and self-determined development.

The Indigenous Peoples of Davao Oriental extend their deepest gratitude to all who made this historic milestone possible and shared in this momentous celebration for IP empowerment. Special thanks are conveyed to the Honorable Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang, the Vice Governor Glenda Rabat – Gayta, and all the Honorable Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan present; City Mayor Joel Mayo Z. Almario; NCIP OIC–Provincial Officer Edwin D. Padilla, MPA; and all partner agencies, IPMRs, leaders and Elders, and IP women and youth, and stakeholders who joined and supported this meaningful occasion. Your commitment and solidarity continue to inspire hope and strengthen the collective journey toward inclusive, rights-based, and culturally grounded development for Indigenous Peoples.

📷 Ethyl Carriedo-Telo Jamiro

NCIP Region 11
NCIP Region 11 - Cateel, Davao Oriental Community Service Center
NCIP Region 11 - Davao Oriental - Manay Community Service Center
NCIP Davao Region Community
Office of the Provincial IPMR

23/01/2026

𝐈𝐏𝐌𝐑/𝐏𝐓𝐂, 𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐏, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐃𝐎𝐑𝐒𝐔 𝐃𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐔𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐔𝐒𝐄 𝐎𝐅 “𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐁𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐘𝐀” 𝐈𝐍 𝐁𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐂 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐆

𝑫𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒐 𝑶𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒍 — The Office of the Provincial Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR), in coordination with the Provincial Tribal Council (PTC) led by Hon. Eleuterio C. Manaytay, Provincial IPMR, convened a consultative dialogue with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) on 21 January 2026 at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) Committee Conference Room. The meeting addressed concerns over the use of the sacred term “Magbabaya” as the scientific name of a newly discovered beetle found in Cateel, Davao Oriental.

The dialogue was prompted by the Mandaya Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs), who regard Magbabaya as their supreme God. Tribal leaders asserted that the use of the term in scientific nomenclature—specifically the species name kweba magbabaya, published in an international journal—was done without proper consultation and constitutes cultural insensitivity and a violation of IP rights.

The dialogue emphasized the need to respect Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSPs) in academic research, scientific discoveries, and government-supported studies. The NCIP reiterated that the principles of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) apply even when research is conducted outside ancestral domains, provided that the area is possessed or occupied by ICCs/IPs, as traditional knowledge is not confined by territorial boundaries. The Commission further cited violations of Sections 32 to 34 of the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) and NCIP Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 2012, particularly on community intellectual property and validation of research outputs.

DOrSU representatives expressed openness to the concerns raised and acknowledged lapses in community consultation, validation, and compliance with FPIC. They clarified that their involvement stemmed from an invitation by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)–Davao Oriental, which led to the publication and online dissemination in April 2024 of two beetle species: kweba magbabaya (Cateel) and kweba diwata (Boston). As a corrective measure, DOrSU committed to issuing a subsequent publication to address and rectify the concerns upon the approval of a new scientific name by the concerned communities. Notwithstanding the duly served invitation, the DENR did not attend the dialogue.

The dialogue also opened new initiatives to avoid violations of the abovementioned laws and policies. Key recommendations included the inclusion of IP and NCIP representatives in research review boards for studies involving IKSPs, which is favored by DOrSU. It was also agreed that a separate consultation will be conducted with the concerned Mandaya ICCs/IPs to present the full research output and determine an appropriate replacement scientific name through proper consultation.

The dialogue underscores the importance of adhering to existing laws and protocols and respecting Indigenous belief systems in research and scientific discovery. It highlights good governance through transparency, accountability, and meaningful participation of affected Indigenous communities.

📷 Office of the Provincial IPMR

NCIP Region 11
NCIP Region 11 - Davao Oriental - Manay Community Service Center
NCIP Davao Region Community
NCIP Region 11 - Cateel, Davao Oriental Community Service Center

06/12/2025

16/11/2025

LOOK | NCIP Conducts Relief Operations for Earthquake-Affected IP Communities in Davao Oriental

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Regional Office XI and Davao Oriental Provincial Office distributed 2,000 food packs to IP communities in Tarragona, Manay, and Caraga on November 13–14, 2025, following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that hit the province.

📍 Tarragona – 500 food packs
📍 Manay (Brgys. San Isidro, Concepcion, Mabini) – 1,000 food packs
📍 Caraga (Brgy. Palma Gil) – 500 food packs

This activity was made possible through the support of the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental, Tribal leaders, Barangay Officials, and partner LGUs.

NCIP remains committed to ensuring that assistance reaches all affected Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs).





NCIP Region 11
NCIP Region 11 - Davao Oriental - Manay Community Service Center
NCIP Davao Region Community

21/10/2025

📣 Community Outreach in Manay, Davao Oriental! 🌾✨

On October 21, 2025, employees of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Davao Oriental, through their voluntary donations, extended assistance to families in Manay, Davao Oriental who were recently affected by the series of earthquakes that struck the area.

In collaboration with the Macambol Cabuaya Ancestral Domain Management Office, the Barangay Tribal Chieftain of Barangay Dawan, the Municipal IPMR of San Isidro Hon. Marilyn Orito, and Mr. Ronnel Dela Luz, the NCIP employees distributed 84 food packs and 25 sets of school supplies to residents and learners in the community. 🍚🎒

The initiative demonstrated the employees’ compassion and solidarity with those impacted by the disaster, reflecting the true spirit of bayanihan and public service. 💚



NCIP Region 11
NCIP Davao Region Community

13/10/2025

🌿 Successful Medical-Legal-Dental Mission in Barangay Luzon, Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental! on October 9, 2025 🌿

Spearheaded by the NCIP Davao Oriental Provincial Office, a Medical-Legal-Dental Mission was successfully conducted in Barangay Luzon, Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental, serving the Indigenous Peoples and local residents with compassion and dedication. The activity was conducted upon the constant request of Hon. Nimfa Badolato, and brought together various agencies, partners, and volunteers in the spirit of Indigenous kinship and mutual care—ensuring that essential health and government services reach even the farthest ancestral communities.

A total of 199 individuals availed of medical consultations with free medicines, led by Dr. Darlyn B. Lequigan, Municipal Health Officer; Dr. Michael Louie Cruz, NCIP Davao Oriental; and Dr. Ma. Fatima Beverly Bustillo, Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC). Medicines and vitamins were provided by the Department of Health (DOH) Region XI, NCIP Davao Oriental Provincial Office, and generous private sponsors: Dr. Jo Ann M. Narvaza, Pediatrician from Tagum Global Medical Hospital; Ms. Gemma C. Waechter from Malaysia; Ms. Jean S. Clarete of Love Net IPTV & Data Corp.; and Mr. Raul and Mrs. Minda Morales of Porj & Beef Meat Dealer.

Meanwhile, 76 individuals benefited from dental services such as tooth extraction, conducted by Dr. Reginald Louie Tolentino and Dr. Portia of the NCIP Davao Oriental Provincial Office, in collaboration with the Municipal Health Office. The provision of dental medicines was made possible through the support of Hon. Eleuterio C. Manaytay, Board Member, and other generous sponsors.

PSA Davao Oriental, also joined the activity and provided vital civil registration and identification services. They assisted clients in the registration for the National ID, issuance of National ID (paper format), updating of demographic information, and addressed clients’ queries related to the ID system. The team also catered to requests for civil registration documents, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, and Certificates of No Marriage (CENOMAR). In total, 40 clients requested copies of birth and marriage certificates, while 30 individuals enrolled for their National IDs.

The NCIP Region 11, Legal Team, lead by Atty. Ariel Montaña along with the Provincial Legal Officer of NCIP Davao Oriental, Atty James Ian A. Generale also catered to 40 IPs with various legal consultations and services.

To further support the community, 100 hygiene kits and school supplies donated by TQGT Mineral Resources Development Corp and NCIP Davao Oriental Provincial Office. were distributed, along with 30 pairs of slippers donated by Ms. Madeleine Cruz, RN. In addition, 40 packs of vegetable seeds from the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAGRO) and 100 pieces of herbal soaps from the Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) were given to the beneficiaries.

The activity was also supported by Hon. Juanito Inojales, Municipal Mayor, feeding the community and the volunteers, totaling to 200 beneficiaries, with food packs. The snacks was provided by Mindanao Development Authority(MinDA) represented by Ms. Rachael Aguaviva.

This mission reflects the collective commitment of government agencies, local leaders, and private individuals to uplift Indigenous Peoples and rural communities—promoting holistic well-being, identity, and dignity. The NCIP Davao Oriental Provincial Office extends its heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Nimfa Badulato, Hon. Eleuterio C. Manaytay, the Municipal Health Office, DOPMC, PSA, and all partner sponsors and volunteers whose unwavering service made this mission a success.

Together, we continue to champion the right to health, identity, and empowerment of our Indigenous Peoples. 🙏✨

NCIP Region 11
NCIP Davao Region Community

22/04/2025

𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗣 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧

We unequivocally condemn this heinous crime that has taken the life of a dedicated public servant, a woman, and a proud Muslim Indigenous woman belonging to the Yakan ICCs/IPs. Ms. Czarina Mae M. Malun's commitment as a CSC Head of the NCIP and her roles as a wife and mother of three paint a picture of a life tragically cut short by the brutal shooting within the NCIP Basilan Provincial Office. This act of violence is deeply saddening.

We call upon the security sector to swiftly conduct a thorough investigation, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure justice for Ms. Malun.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with Ms. Malun's family, friends, and colleagues as they navigate this profound loss. We stand in solidarity with them and the entire community in seeking justice and lasting peace.

Read: https://ncip.gov.ph/news/ncip-statement-2/

28/01/2025

NCIP PROVINCIAL HEALTH TEAM JOINS MATI'S MMNR FAMILY CARE-AVAN TO PROMOTE HEALTH AND WELLNESS

📍 Brgy. Don Enrique Lopez, Mati, Davao Oriental
📅 January 28, 2025

The NCIP Provincial Health Team—composed of Manal M. Aharad, Aida R. Lebumfacil, and Sarah Jane L. Madalinsan—actively participated in the Maternal, Mental, and Nutrition Recovery (MMNR) Family Care-avan, an initiative spearheaded by the City Social Welfare and Development Office- City of Mati

The activity focused on:
✅ Promoting maternal health and mental well-being.
✅ Addressing nutritional concerns for families in the area.
✅ Providing essential services and support to local residents.

With the collaboration of the NCIP Provincial Health Team and CSWDO, the program emphasized sustainable, community-driven approaches to health and well-being.

Padayon sa pag-atiman ug pagpalambo sa panglawas ug pamilya!