Valley IP leaders settle issues

A resolution affirming the settlement of problems between former Indigenous People Mandatory Representative Marcelo Abela and current IP representative Pendon Thompson convened over the weekend through the customary practice of the “tongtongan”.

During the meeting at Wangal Barangay Hall, La Trinidad Indigenous People Or- ganization member Teodora Esteban said “you are the first elder so far in the history of the IPMR, it’s good that you did not let others suffer.”

Abela said “My point is to unite the IP's especially the IPs of La Trinidad because we have many problems, because

we cannot really go forward if we are very much divided, we agreed that we will work together, I will forgive.”

Elders and leaders present during the meeting vouched for both IP leaders and said their friendship shall remain.

A majority of leaders called for the withdrawal of complaints for the betterment of the organization, the Ibaloys, Kankana-eys, and Kalanguyas.

Previously, the spat between the two IP leaders have left the local council apprehensive.

Thompson acknowledge he tongtongan customary by the Indigenous People.

“I will try my best of ability and rest assured that the guidelines of the IPMR and the IPRA Law shall prevail,” said Thompson.

The Sangguniang Bayan of La Trinidad allowed Thompson to sit in while waiting for the certification of affirmation from the National Commission of Indigenous People.

The resolution shall be forwarded to NCIP Regional Director Ronald Calde, to the office of Mayor Romeo Salda, the Sangguniang Bayan of La Trinidad through Vice- Mayor Joey Marrero, NCIP Provincial Officer Nora Ramos, the Sangguaniang Panlalawigan of Benguet, and Office of the Provincial Director of DILG-Benguet.