The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) and the Tagabawa Christian School made a significant stride in the advancement of community-based education with a shared vision of advocating inclusive education accessibility for the Bagobo-Tagabawa Indigenous People in Astorga, Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur. A historic moment unfolded as the University and the partner institution came together to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) at the Office of the President, Board Room, Obrero Campus.
A partnership between USeP and Tagabawa Christian School, both of whom are committed to advancing Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) in the Davao Region, was formally established during the signing event. The initiative sought to equip Tagabawa Christian School, a partner institution, with instructional and information, education, and communication (IEC) materials contextualized to the culture of the Bagobo-Tagabawa. This approach aims to improve the teaching and learning processes and effectively address the specific educational requirements of their Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs).
The signing ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Eveyth P. Deligero, the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed representatives from USeP, including President Lourdes C. Generalao, and from Tagabawa Christian School, led by Matanem Renante D. Talabon; both expressing their gratitude to all participants present.
During the ceremony, both parties emphasized their shared “Pangandoy,” or aspiration, to ensure inclusive education for the Bagobo-Tagabawa people.
According to President Generalao, “by joining forces, USeP and the IP communities will demonstrate the power of collaboration in solidifying the contextualization of instructional materials in the Davao Region. This partnership served as a model for the Philippines, reflecting the nation’s commitment to advancing Indigenous education and preserving cultural heritage, transforming the communities in the ASEAN and beyond.” Thus, by providing tailored instructional and IEC materials, the initiative will truly bridge the gap between mainstream education and the preservation of indigenous culture.
“Wala mi nag-expect na ang amoang pangandoy, mao pud ang pangandoy sa USeP. Abi namo magpabilin lang mi ilabi na amoang mga bata sa paggunit ug armas para makalingkawas sa maong kalisod.” (we did not expect that our dream is also the dream of USeP. We thought we would just remain, especially our IP children, holding on to weapons to escape from this hardship), Matanem Talabon, Founder of Tagabawa Christian School, said in his message.
One of the project leaders concluded the MoA signing ceremony, Dr. Catherine M. Roble, with a sense of hope and determination. The partnership between USeP and Tagabawa Christian School serves as a beacon of progress for community-based education. Through this joint effort, the Bagobo-Tagabawa IPs can look forward to a future where their cultural identity is honored and their educational needs are met with sensitivity and inclusivity.
USeP and Tagabawa Christian School extend their heartfelt appreciation to all participants, USeP Top Management, NCIP Region XI, community leaders, and stakeholders who graced the occasion with their presence. Special thanks go to the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), the Institute of Languages and Creatives Arts (ILCA), and the USeP-Extension Division, whose efforts contributed to the success of the MoA signing ceremony.
