In observance of National Indigenous Peoples Month, the Center for Peace, Indigenous Peoples’ Resources and Development (CPIPRD) of Tarlac State University aired a special episode of IPRadio on October 16, 2025, featuring an in-depth discussion on the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997 and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
Hosted by Mr. Howard Aries V. Ronquillo, the program served as an avenue to promote awareness and understanding of the rights, struggles, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the Philippines and beyond. The episode featured distinguished speakers and legal experts who provided insights into the continuing advocacy for the protection and empowerment of IP communities.
Atty. Ruby Rose P. Vinluan, Atty. Charles Kevin T. Salonga, and Prof. Bryan Jan S. Dizon shared their expertise on various aspects of IP rights, emphasizing the importance of aligning local laws such as IPRA with international frameworks like UNDRIP to strengthen Indigenous representation, cultural preservation, and access to justice.
In their discussions, the speakers underscored the need for inclusive policies and genuine recognition of ancestral domains, self-governance, and the right to cultural integrity. The Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) was emphasized as an integral part of the rights of Indigenous Peoples, as it allows them to take part in the decision-making process before the conduct of any activity, program, or project. They also highlighted the role of educational institutions like TSU in advancing peace education, cultural awareness, and community development through research and extension programs.
Mr. Ronquillo, emphasized that IPRadio serves as a continuing platform to give voice to Indigenous communities and to foster dialogue between policymakers, educators, and the public
