22 April 2024 | To gather feedback from UN member countries and concerned stakeholders, the UNPFII convened a meeting on the human rights dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; annual review of progress on the implementation of general recommendation No. 39 (2022).
In the interactive dialogue, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, represented by Commissioner Atty. Pinky Grace Pareja, shared the Philippine legislations and programs that uphold and protect the rights of Indigenous women and girls and the adherence of the Philippine government to the general recommendation no. 39 (2022).
In her statement, Commissioner Pareja recognized the historical significance of the general recommendation to achieving inclusivity and equality for indigenous women and girls. Also, she expressed the Philippine government’s receptiveness to the observations, recommendations, and support of the Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous Peoples.
On the specific legislations fostering inclusivity and equality for indigenous women and girls, Commissioner Pareja cited the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997 as the vital legislation that promulgates indigenous women and girls’ basic human rights and freedoms. Additionally, she emphasized Republic Act 9710, or the Philippines’ Magna Carta of Women, for it recognizes the marginalization of indigenous women and girls and the need to prioritize the improvement of their access to basic social and economic services.
Moreover, supplemental to the Philippines’ commitment in recognizing and promoting indigenous women and girls, Commissioner Pareja provided a brief discussion about the Philippine government’s gender equality and women’s empowerment plan for 2019-2025, highlighting the enhancement of the recognition of IP women’s ownership and access to land and resources as its key strategy.
To end her statement, Commissioner Pareja assured the international community that the Philippine government aims to employ inclusivity in its programs, taking into consideration the importance of active engagement and consultation with indigenous peoples, particularly indigenous women and girls.
Accompanying Commissioner Pareja during the interactive dialogue is NCIP Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las together with Commissioner Atty. Rhodex P. Valenciano, Commissioner Jeorge M. Largado, and Commissioner Gaspar A. Cayat.
