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The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Local Government of Unit Officials, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Field Office, and Philippine National Police (PNP), together with the Indigenous Peoples communities of the Municipality of Botolan, Zambales confederated on November 8, 2022 at the Peoples Plaza, Barangay Tampo, Botolan, Zambales to uphold indigenous peoples’ (IPs) rights through the selection of mandatory representation in the local legislative council. The selection process was based on the local guidelines finalized during series of coordination meetings.

NCIP Provincial Officer Engr. Albert Alisdan led the undertaking and allowed the aspirants to deliver their speech prior to the selection proceeding. He likewise provided the overview of the activity, as agreed upon and indicated in the local guidelines.

The turnout revealed that Ms. Ladie M. De Leon from Barangay Nacolcol garnered the highest number of votes at 277, as witnessed by the DILG, PNP, IP communities and the other aspirants. She will be serving for another three years and shall enjoy the privileges of a regular Sangguniang Bayan member, upon assumption to office.

IP representation is mandated under Republic Act 8371, or the IP Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997.