ZAMBOANGA CITY – On a sunny morning in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte last August 6, 2024, I had the privilege of attending the HAPAG Katutubo Project Convergence Meeting. As a representative of Regional Director, Dir. Ruben L. Cunanan, JD of CDA Region IX Extension Office. Said project aims at uplifting the lives of our Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs) – Subanons of Municipality of Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte.

The HAPAG Katutubo Project is anchored in the principles of inclusive development. Its theme, “Katutubo, Katuwang sa pag-unlad para sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas”, reflects a commitment to creating a prosperous and sustainable future for our indigenous communities. The project seeks to foster convergence among stakeholders, including national government agencies (NGAs), civil society organizations (CSOs), academe, and private institutions.

Goals of the Project:

1. Agricultural Productivity: The project aims to increase the agricultural productivity of ICCs and IPs. By providing support, training, and resources, we hope to enhance their farming practices and yield.
2. Income Generation: Sustainable opportunities for income generation are crucial. Through the project, we aspire to create avenues for our indigenous communities to earn a livelihood, ensuring their self-sufficiency.

The convergence was graced by esteemed individuals who share a passion for empowering our indigenous communities. Notable attendees included:

• Joel M. Ventura – Municipal Mayor, Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte;
• Julius L. Mabini – Regional Director, NCIP IX;
• Paisal O. Abutazil – Regional Director, DILG IX duly represented by the Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO of LGU Sibuco, ZDN);
• Al-Zath K. Kunting – Regional Director, BFAR IX;
• Ruben L. Cunanan, JD – Regional Director, CDA IX duly represented by Mr. Ryan C. Amilhussin (CDS II/Acting HRMO);
• Authorized Representatives from the different National Government Agencies (NGAs);
• Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP); and
• Tribal Leaders – Subanon (ICCs, IPs), Barangay Officials, and Private Sector.

Grand Launching Ahead

As we look forward to the grand launching on August 28, 2024 at Barangay Sto, Niño, Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte, I am filled with hope. The HAPAG Katutubo Project represents a beacon of progress, unity, and empowerment. Together, we can build a brighter future for our indigenous brothers and sisters.

Cooperative Development Authority – Region IX Extension Officer commitments for the Grand Launching are as follows, to wit:

1. Provision of Pre-Registration Seminar (PRS) for those who would like to organize a cooperative (Subanon’s – IPs of Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte);
2. Information Dissemination (IEC Materials distribution during the Grand Launching – Basic on Cooperatives and How to Register a Cooperative);
3. Conduct of Mandatory Trainings to comply with the training requirements of all officers (once registered as cooperative);
4. Provisions of Handholding Services and Technical Assistance (from Registration to Capacity Building); and
5. As show of support, CDA IX will participate in all activities for the successful implementation of the said project.

by Ryan C. Amilhussin, CDS II