MANILA — Former Cotabato governor and current National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) commissioner Nancy Catamco has reportedly been appointed as the new chairperson of the NCIP, according to a post circulating on social media. Catamco, who has long been associated with advocacy for indigenous cultural communities, is expected to bring her extensive experience in governance and grassroots leadership to the commission’s top post.
Having previously served as governor of Cotabato and as a representative of the 2nd District, she has been a visible figure in championing the rights and welfare of indigenous peoples, particularly in Mindanao.
The NCIP plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples (IPs), including the recognition of ancestral domains, self-governance, and cultural integrity. Observers note that Catamco’s appointment could further strengthen the agency’s ongoing programs and policy direction.
As of this writing, formal confirmation from Malacañang has not yet been released.
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