Buhi, Camarines Sur — The vibrant Indigenous Cultural Community of Barangay San Ramon came together on October 17, 2025, to commemorate the Barangay Indigenous Peoples (IP) Day and the 28th Anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) under the theme: “Hinabing Kalinangan, Masaganang Kinabukasan: Pagsasakapangyarihan sa mga Katutubong Pamayanan Bilang Saligan ng Likas-Kayang Kaunlaran.”
The celebration was spearheaded by Enelyn Malazarte-Galupo, the Indigenous Political Structure (IPS) Head of Buhi, who led the program with heartfelt gratitude and pride in the continued empowerment and unity of the indigenous peoples of Buhi.
Gracing the event as Guest of Honor was Atty. Joyce S. Lapuz, Regional Director of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region V, along with Commissioner Atty. Rhodex Valenciano (Commissioner for Region III and the rest of Luzon), Mr. Darren A. Dela Cruz, Community Development Officer of DA RFO V (4K Program), and several notable guests and stakeholders.
The event was also attended by Hon. Michael Angelo V. Lacoste, Municipal Councillor of Buhi; Mrs. Catherine Malazarte, RSW of DSWD 4Ps, with her staff from Team Buhi and Region; Engr. Imelda G. Pantaleon, OIC Head of Buhi Service Center, and staff; Faculty and Staff of San Ramon Elementary School headed by Sir Christian S. Molina; Hon. Fe M. Narra and members of the Barangay Council; and Sir Ernani “Stanley” Briz, community stakeholder.
Mrs. Galupo also expressed deep appreciation to her fellow Tribal Chieftains — Aurora A. Inocentes, Rizalde T. Praxides, Rizalino M. Praxides, and Ms. Elvie N. Ilarde, as well as the IP Youth, the Master of Ceremonies, and visitors from various tribal communities of Buhi. She extended special thanks to the Barangay Local Government Unit of San Ramon for their support and cooperation.
The day’s highlights included a Mobile Local Civil Registration Caravan, an Indigenous Vendors Product Display, cultural presentations, and Palarong Lahi, all showcasing the rich heritage and resilience of the Indigenous Peoples.
A special acknowledgment was also given to Ma’am Marion and Sir Karl Ramirez of Naga City, for their creative contribution as layout artists for the event’s beautiful tarpaulin and program materials.
As Buhi’s indigenous communities continue to preserve their cultural identity while embracing inclusive growth, the event stood as a testament to the unity and empowerment that drive sustainable development among indigenous peoples.
