The Ayta Magbukun experience

To mark the 22nd anniversary of the enactment of RA 8371 or the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997, the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) Regional Office 3 held the IP Language Dialogue: The Ayta Magbukun Experience at the Bahay Wika in Bangkal, Abucay yesterday, October 23. RA 8371 or the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997 recognizes, protects and promotes the rights of indigenous cultural communities and its people.

Social Anthropologist Mr. Kevin Fonseca, and NCIP Region 3 Planning Officer explained the significance of the first ever event to the attendees composed of the teachers and elders at Bahay Wika; the IPs in Bangkal; NCIP scholars from Pampanga, Zambales and Bataan; local government officials and other stakeholders.

Said event also serves as NCIP’s observation of the 2019 International Year of Indigenous Languages.
It would be remembered that in September last year, the first “Bahay-Wika” in the country aimed at saving endangered Philippine languages was opened here, spearheaded by the Komisyon ng Wikang Pambansa in cooperation with the Provincial and Municipal governments and other stakeholders.

Abucay Mayor Liberato Santiago Jr. and national artist Virgilio Almario, chairman of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the KWF led the opening ceremonies. Said building also serves as classroom for Ayta children to learn the Ayta Magbukun language.

with report from Jholly Macaraeg