With the theme โIbiag Nan Kannawidan, Kultura Ay Nainsigudan Ayyewan, Padayawan!โ, the summit aimed to honor the enduring customs and traditions of Indigenous Peoples in Region 1. The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 1 through the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4Ks) program, participated in the 2024 Regional Indigenous Peoples (IP) Summit, which took place on October 11, 2024, at the Municipal Covered Court in Barangay Cabaroan, San Emilio, Ilocos Sur.
The day-long event convened leaders, advocates, and community members to celebrate the vibrant culture and unity among the Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs) across the region. The summit started early in the morning with a Thanksgiving Ritual called “Begnas,” followed by a Solidarity Walk starting from the San Emilio Public Market and ending at the Municipal Covered Court.
Highlights of the summit included cultural presentations such as traditional dances and performances and various solidarity messages from prominent leaders, including Ethnographic Commissioner Gary A. Cayat, Ilocos Sur Governor Honorable Jerry Singson, NCIP OIC-Regional Director Atty. Marvin Biligan, and Ilocos Sur APCO Jomar Dayap.
Additionally, a series of cultural dance competitions were held in the afternoon, including the Sayyadok 2024 Cultural Dance Competition. Awards were also given to individuals and groups who have championed Indigenous Peoples’ practices and showcased their talents.