CASIGURAN, Aurora – The Aurora Pacific Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) is preparing to enter a joint management agreement (JMA) with indigenous peoples (IPs) within its jurisdiction, President and CEO Atty. Gil G. Taway IV said in a radio interview on Sunday.
Patterned after the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority’s partnership with the Aeta community, the initiative will focus on the 12,242-hectare Parcel 2 of the ecozone, home to six indigenous settlements. APECO envisions the area as a hub for jobs, eco-tourism, and environmental conservation.
The JMA aims to promote shared decision-making between APECO and IP communities, ensuring economic activities align with cultural traditions and environmental protection.
“We want to include our indigenous brothers and sisters in the dialogue and management process so that our programs are based on their needs and perspectives. We don’t want anyone to be left behind in development,” Taway said.
APECO is coordinating with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to secure Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) and delineate Parcel 2 boundaries. Quarterly consultations with tribal chieftains are ongoing, and in December 2024, IP communities received long-delayed Certificates of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) approved by the NCIP after a 17-year wait.
Under Taway’s leadership since October 2023, the number of IPs employed as Bantay Gubat, or forest rangers, has increased from 22 to 61. Other programs include establishing an IP Desk and Lounge, offering livelihood training, and providing free use of facilities for cultural events.
APECO said the planned JMA reflects its commitment to inclusive growth by integrating IP communities into sustainable development programs. – JAYSON DE ASIS