Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has recently lauded the successful augmentation of the national budget for the Mindanao Development Authority — highlighting the allocation of P10 million to the Strengthening Indigenous People in Mindanao Program which he pushed for as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance.

The lawmaker — who is also an ex-officio member of the MinDA Board of Directors — stressed that the funding boost is a move towards empowering the indigenous communities in Mindanao, focusing on preserving their rich cultural heritage and enhancing their living standards.

“This allocation is not merely a financial boost; it is a testament to our commitment to empower the indigenous communities of Mindanao. The indigenous peoples are the bearers of our rich cultural heritage, and we must ensure their growth, development, and integration into the fabric of our national progress,” Go said.

“The STIP-Mindanao Program, with this newly allocated budget, aims to provide these communities with the necessary resources and support. The STIP-Mindanao Program is an initiative of MinDa that aims to provide essential resources and support to the indigenous peoples of Mindanao,” he added.

Go underscored that the program seeks to address various socio-economic challenges faced by these communities by ensuring access to education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.

He added that the program is designed to be culturally sensitive, respecting and preserving the unique traditions and practices of each community.