Iriga celebrates Indigenous Peoples Day with 500 Agta community members

IRIGA CITY — About 500 indigenous people from 30 Agta tribes converged at the Iriga City Sports Center on Thursday to mark the nation's Indigenous Peoples Day, utilizing the occasion to avail themselves of various government services.

The celebration provided Agta community members direct access to government assistance programs and administrative services, addressing their needs in a single venue. Local government units coordinated the event to facilitate service delivery to the indigenous population while promoting awareness of their cultural heritage.

The festivities included a range of cultural activities designed to showcase Agta traditions and artistic expressions. Participants engaged in poetry competitions, singing and dancing performances, traditional games, storytelling sessions, and indigenous musical performances throughout the day.

The gathering reflected efforts by local authorities to recognize and support indigenous communities while providing them with practical access to government resources. The simultaneous celebration of cultural activities and service delivery underscored the city's commitment to inclusive development for its indigenous population.

Indigenous Peoples Day is observed annually to honor the rights, dignity, and contributions of indigenous communities across the Philippines.