MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Bukidnon Gov. Rogelio Neil P. Roque has called for
greater recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ rights, stronger self-governance and protection of
ancestral lands as tribal leaders and communities gathered for the Regional Indigenous Peoples
Summit on October 21.

In his message marking National Indigenous Peoples Month, Roque emphasized that lasting
peace and sustainable development could only be achieved if Indigenous communities were
included in decisions affecting their lands, livelihoods, cultural heritage and future.

This year’s theme, “Empowering Indigenous Voices, Strengthening Self-Governance, and
Advancing Peace and Sustainable Development,” underscores the importance of ensuring that
Indigenous Peoples have a meaningful role in shaping their communities, he said.
Bukidnon is home to seven Indigenous tribes with distinct cultures, languages and traditions, but
Roque stressed that their differences should serve as a source of strength rather than division.
“Different tribes. Different languages. Different traditions. But one heart, one purpose, and one
future,” he said, invoking the spirit of “One Bukidnon” as a call for unity among the province’s
diverse communities.
The governor also underscored the importance of respecting tribal leaders, listening to elders,
empowering Indigenous women and providing young people with opportunities to preserve and
carry forward their ancestral knowledge.
He said protecting ancestral lands, forests, rivers and sacred traditions must remain central to
development efforts, warning against progress that comes at the expense of Indigenous identity
and heritage.
Roque further stressed that peace required more than formal agreements, saying it must be built
through mutual respect, understanding, forgiveness and cooperation among communities.
He thanked the datus, baes, elders and Indigenous communities across Mindanao for preserving
the traditions and wisdom that enrich the region’s cultural identity.
The governor called for a Bukidnon where every tribe is represented, every voice is heard and no
community is left behind, stressing that genuine unity does not require people to share the same
language or traditions but to respect one another despite their differences. (melbmadera)