As part of Lift PH Up’s commitment to ethical, transparent, and community‑led development, our team conducted a follow‑up visit to Paluan, Occidental Mindoro to finalize the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Children’s Discovery Camp in partnership with the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) community. Our objective was to ensure that every provision of the MOA aligns with Indigenous governance structures, national policy, and the community’s priorities for their children.
Although we initially sought legal review from a Mamburao‑based lawyer, the meeting did not push through. Through the support of our partners in Paluan, we were introduced to Mr. Garry B. Pag‑Ilagan, a prominent member of indigenous cultural communities of the municipality.
Mr. Pag‑Ilagan graciously reviewed the draft MOA line by line, ensuring that its terms were consistent with the principles of the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997 (IPMR Law) and respectful of the community’s cultural protocols. He also agreed to accompany our team to the June 14 meeting with the full Council of Elders to help explain the agreement and its implications.
This was our second formal meeting with the elders. The first, held on May 2, introduced the Children’s Discovery Camp and sought their blessing and initial approval. The June 14 meeting presented the MOA in full, in writing, to secure informed consent and a shared understanding of responsibilities, safeguards, and long‑term intentions.
Through this process, we reaffirmed that the Children’s Discovery Camp is not merely a program to be implemented, but a joint undertaking grounded in respect, clarity, and co‑ownership. Lift PH Up remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency and partnership as we move forward.
Image shows IP community members and Council of Elders of Paluan gathered after the MOA discussion — a reminder that this work is always shared. Sixth from left is Amay Peling Villanueva, head of Council of Elders. Far right is IP leader, Garry B. Pag-Ilagan, past IPM Representative of Paluan. Third from right is Lester Evangelio, an agriculturist and Lift PH Up’s consultant. He was instrumental in introducing Mr. Pag-Ilagan to us.
