PRESS RELEASE

PhilSys Team of Occidental Mindoro Engages with Tau-Buid Indigenous Communities in Poypoy, Calintaan for the Launching of Hapag Katutubo Project

Date of release: September 27, 2024
Reference No. 2024PR-78

27 September 2024 – Calintaan, Occidental Mindoro– In a groundbreaking effort to promote inclusivity and empower marginalized communities, the PhilSys Team of Occidental Mindoro has successfully engaged with the Tau-Buid indigenous people of So. Tamisan, Poypoy, Calintaan, as part of the innovative Hapag Katutubo Project with the theme “Katutubo, Katuwang sa pag-unlad para sa Masaganang Bagong Pilipinas” on 26 September 2024. This impactful initiative not only registered 27 members of the Tau-Buid community but also established a vital connection aimed at enhancing access to essential government services and resources.

The PhilSys team, spearheaded by Mr. Christian A. Altarejos, PhilSys Focal Person, ventured into the heart of the Tau-Buid territory, determined to bridge the gap between marginalized communities and essential government programs. The team’s journey was not merely about registration; it was about cultivating relationships, understanding community needs, and empowering indigenous voices.

Mr. Altarejos addressed the gathered community members, local government officials, and partner agencies, emphasizing the significance of the PhilSys initiative  in reaching far-flung areas. “Today marks a significant step toward inclusion,” he declared. “Our mission is to ensure that every Filipino, regardless of their geographic or socio-economic standing, has access to the benefits and services they deserve.”

The Hapag Katutubo Project, an initiative designed to provide food security and promote nutritional awareness among indigenous communities, resonated deeply with the Tau-Buid people. As part of the engagement, the PhilSys team highlighted the importance of their participation in the national identification system, which will enable them to access a wide range of government services, from health care to educational opportunities.

The day was filled with vibrant cultural exchanges, where the Tau-Buid community showcased their rich heritage through traditional songs and cultural understanding. This celebration of culture underscored the importance of respecting and preserving indigenous traditions while working collaboratively toward a brighter future.
In addition to the registration, the PhilSys team facilitated discussions on various topics, including the emergence of the digital national ID, the registration process, challenges and the needed support to reach the target output by the end of 2024. The feedback from community members was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the initiative’s focus on their unique needs and challenges.

As the PhilSys Team continues its saturation drive across Occidental Mindoro, the engagement at So. Tamisan serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of reaching out to every corner of the province. By prioritizing inclusivity and community collaboration, the PhilSys initiative is setting a new standard for government outreach.

The PhilSys Team extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Tau-Buid community for their warm welcome, as well as to local government officials and partner agencies for their unwavering support. Together, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Filipinos.

For further information, please contact our office at telephone number (043) 711 982; or thru Mr. Christian A. Altarejos at 09154144873 or email us at occidentalmindoro@psa.gov.ph.

(SGD) MARIBEL L. BERNARDO, PhD
Chief Statistical Specialist