On October 18, 2024, Louisian students and faculty members gathered at the USL Junior High School AVR – Bulwagang Pacifico Casem for the seminar titled “Empowering Indigenous Communities: Fostering Inclusive and Sustainable Community Engagement.” The event, organized by the Community Engagement and CICM Advocacies (CECA) Office, focused on promoting ethical, inclusive, and sustainable practices when engaging with indigenous groups. Key principles such as Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) and mutual respect were highlighted, emphasizing the importance of ensuring indigenous peoples’ active participation in decision-making and project implementation.
The seminar, led by keynote speaker John Paul C. Tong, PhD, Regional Planning Officer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), also explored sustainable approaches aligned with the long-term goals of indigenous communities. To welcome the participants, the United Cordilleran Students’ Cultural Organization performed a traditional indigenous dance, celebrating the rich heritage of the Cordilleran people and setting a culturally immersive tone for the event.
In attendance were Rev. Fr. John Mark D. Barroga, CICM, MATh-PM, Vice President for Mission and Identity, and Rev. Fr. Nicolas Citolo, CICM, Parish Priest of St. Mary Catholic Mission. The event aligned with the CICM advocacy of solidarity with marginalized and indigenous groups, promoting respect, justice, and sustainable community engagement. It also supported Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10, which focuses on reducing inequalities, and SDG 16, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies. Through this initiative, USL continues to empower indigenous communities and foster long-lasting, respectful partnerships.
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