By Priam Nepomuceno/Philippine News Agency
MANILA – The public is warned against engaging in any activity with the so-called “Federal Tribal Government of the Philippines” (FTGP) which is not recognized by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and any its affiliate agencies.
“Please be informed that the FTGP headed by Datu Higyawan Na Holag-Ayan (Carmelito S. Escudero), Governor General, a non-government organization is not recognized by the NCIP and the Indigenous Political Structure of the Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICC) of Region 11. An activity or transactions of this group is not in any way attached with the Office,” NCIP 11 Regional Director, lawyer Geroncio Aguio, said in a statement.
On June 17, the FTGP made headlines when it submitted a letter to Supreme Court Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin demanding the dismissal in 72 hours of “all imaginary and premeditated cases the KAPA Community Ministry International, Inc.”
The group added that the appeal was meant to help protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) affected by the closure of KAPA and arrest of its officers.
“The State (Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary) Branches of Government shall Promote, Assist, and Protect the rights of Indigenous People to Ensure their Economic, Social, and Cultural Development, Well-fare (welfare) and Well-being,” it added.
KAPA, which was a registered religious group, was earlier flagged by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for soliciting investments from the public in the form of donations at a monthly interest rate of 30 percent.
The SEC has since revoked the group’s registration and issued a cease and desist order against its operations.
KAPA is headed by Pastor Joel Apolinario, who is at-large, and now being hunted by law enforcers.
Aguio added that while Datu Douglas S. Mangcal, the group’s so-called “FTGP Provincial Tribal Chieftain”, an acknowledged member of the Blaan Indigenous Cultural Community and Indigenous Peoples in Matanao, Davao Del Sur, he is not the recognized leader or elder of the above-mentioned IP group.
“Thereby, having no authority in dealing transactions for and on behalf of the Blaan ICCs/IPs in Davao Del Sur,” Aguio added.
For the latest updates about this story, visit the Philippine News Agency website
