BRGY. DESAMPARADOS, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur - Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of Purok Bataran and Purok 3 will receive a livelihood project from the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) after an immersion activity which was a part of the “Sensing Journey on Indigenous People” participated by ten (10) 4H Club members and three (3) ATI – Regional Training Center 13 staff last November 6-9, 2018.

Dr. Randy D. Rosas from the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) discussed the Manobo Culture and Cultural Sensitivity and further elaborated Republic Act 8371 otherwise known as the “Indigenous People Republic Act (IPRA) Law” to the 4Hers and ATI staff prior to the immersion. He also emphasized the authority and rights of our Katutubo Lumads.

During the immersion on November 7-8, 2018, the IPs’ needs were gathered through individual interviews. The Project Officer of the said activity in the person of Mary Jane Gonzaga consolidated and presented the result and the possible agricultural interventions the group may undertake. The group agreed to have a livestock livelihood (Swine and Goat production) project as their after-training support. In Purok Bataran, the IPs requested for two Caracow and supplies and materials for their communal vegetable garden.

Gift packs, vegetable seeds and school supplies given during the activity brought smiles to the Katutubo children and adults. The 4Hers experienced living with them and helping them in their daily activities. They said that it is right time to give back what opportunities the government has provided them as 4H members.

Desamparados Barangay Captain Amado and IP Chieftain Datu Durango expressed how thankful they were that their barangay was chosen for the project. Datu Durango said that he will be the one to spearhead the management of the livelihood project.