The Local Government of Hingyon, in coordination with the National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), conducted the Oath-taking Ceremony of the 4 elected Barangay Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) today, October 1, 2025 at the Mayorโs Office, marking the formal start of their mandate to represent their respective Indigenous Peoples community in local governance.
Hon. Florencio Nalula administered the oath-taking of Ms. Leah Tuguinay of Barangay Piwong, Ms. Wendy Binwag of Barangay Namulditan, Ms. Alma Tabaldo of Barangay Poblacion, and Ms. Maribel Lubiton of Northern Cababuyan.
The induction of these new IPMRs highlights the ongoing efforts to integrate the voices and concerns of Indigenous communities into the fabric of local governance. The IPMRs are tasked with advocating for the rights and welfare of their communities, ensuring that the voices of Indigenous Peoples are heard, and that their cultural heritage is protected within the municipal decision-making processes.
Present during the activity were MLGOO Gilbert Lindawan, Ms. Mae Damag, Mr. Jodale Villena, Hon. Roberto Cawal-o, Hon. Joel Tuguinay, Hon. Karen Ivy Licyayo and the IPMRsโ family members.
The oath-taking ceremony is just the beginning of the IPMRsโ important work. As mandated by law, IPMRs serve as the official voice of their communities within the local governance structure, ensuring that policies, programs, and services are culturally sensitive and responsive to the unique needs of Indigenous Peoples. They will also be instrumental in fostering dialogue between the local government and the IP communities, facilitating more inclusive and participatory decision-making.#
