The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology celebrated Indigenous Peoples Month 2025 with the theme “Katutubong Tinig, Katutubong Lakas: Kababaihan, Kapayapaan, at Pamana” on October 28, 2025, at Nieto Hall, Sumacab Campus, Cabanatuan City.

The event aimed to promote education, peace, and empowerment among indigenous peoples by deepening understanding of their experiences and recognizing their significant role in cultural preservation and national development.

The celebration was joined by students from the Bachelor of Arts in Literary and Cultural Studies, Indigenous students from NEUST, representatives from Tarlac Agricultural University and Central Luzon State University, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives, IP leaders, and indigenous youth organizations.

In her message, NEUST Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training Dr. Jean Guillasper highlighted the importance of inclusivity and respect for cultural diversity.

“Education and empowerment must always be grounded in inclusivity and respect for cultural diversity,” she said.

This was followed by a message from Dr. Donato Bumacas, Provincial Officer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples–Nueva Ecija Provincial Office, who emphasized the unity and strength of indigenous groups in preserving their culture.

He remarked, “Bawat hibla, bawat grupo ng katutubo ay may kwento, may kultura, at may saysay; sa ating pagkakaiba, kailangan nating magkaisa tungo sa kaunlaran.”

Dr. Amina Rasul Bernardo, President of the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy, delivered the keynote address titled “28 Years of IPRA, 25 Years of WPS: Pathways to Peace and Empowerment.”

A cultural performance followed as members of the ADIBAI IP Youth Organization led a community dance celebrating unity and cultural pride.

Solidarity messages were then shared by representatives from various partner institutions and agencies, including Dr. Donato Bumacas, Mr. April Christian De Leon from Tarlac Agricultural University, and Dr. Eugene Baltazar from Central Luzon State University.

The program continued with a discussion on “Indigenous Leadership and Structures in the Context of IPRA,” led by Atty. Salma Pir Rasul, Executive Director of the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy.

The event concluded with an open forum and a message from Dr. Vilma Ramos, Program Chair of the Regional Center for Indigenous Peoples Education (ReCIPE), who expressed gratitude to the guests, partner institutions, and students for their participation, and highlighted the university’s commitment to supporting indigenous learners and fostering collaboration to preserve and promote cultural awareness.

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