Members of the Magcorao-Bukidnon Indigenous Community were presented with solar-powered flashlights recently during a day to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Month. This aims to support and raise awareness of indigenous cultural communities.
In keeping with these aims, the Technological University of the Philippines (TUVP), the Rotary Club of Bacolod-Marapara (RCBM), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and Junior Chamber International (JCI) jointly staged a special day in Barangay Katilingban, Talisay City, Negros Occidental, for some 100 members of the Magcorao-Bukidnon community.
The event included a basic electricity course with an orientation on how to properly use the solar lights to maximize their capacity. Community members were also given medical checks along with rice packs, vitamins and medicines.
“Using renewable energy like these flashlights not only helps the Magcorao-Bukidnon community, but solar lighting can help reduce the effect of climate change.” said Dr. Eric Malooy, TUPV campus director.
JCI Talisay has been supporting the Magcorao-Bukidnon Indigenous Community for some time with Project RISE. This aims to uplift the lives of the community with activities such as training programs and livelihood projects.
“Our support for indigenous peoples started in a small way and we’re delighted to see that it’s growing and being sustained through activities like this,” said Project RISE chairperson Mary Chell Hinojales.
TUPV’s Dr. Eric Malooy, NCIP Negros Occidental head Hazel Acse and Marapara Rotary president Lani Ferrer joined JCI in expressing continued support for National Indigenous Peoples Month: “Pagtataguyod ng pamayanang kultural para sa isang matatag na Pilipinas (Upholding cultural communities for a robust Philippines).”