The Story Behind Our Advocacy

In the quiet and breathtaking mountains of Tanay, Rizal, lives the Dumagat-Remontado Tribe—one of the proud Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines. They are known for their deep respect for nature, their rich traditions, and their strong sense of community. Their way of life is simple yet full of wisdom passed down through generations.

However, behind their beautiful culture lies a silent struggle—the challenge of accessing education. Many Dumagat-Remontado children live far from the nearest schools, walking for hours along rough, muddy paths just to attend classes. Some cannot go to school at all because their families cannot afford basic school supplies, uniforms, or daily transportation.

There are students who brave the day with empty stomachs or worn-out shoes, yet they continue to learn with unwavering determination and hope. Sadly, many still end up dropping out because the journey becomes too difficult to bear.

Education is more than just learning to read and write—it is the light that guides these children toward a brighter future. It gives them the power to dream bigger, uplift their families, and strengthen their community. Through education, they can preserve their culture while gaining the skills they need to thrive in a changing world.

Voices of Change for an Inclusive Indigenous Education

The Department of Education (DepEd), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tanay, Rizal are the main decision-makers responsible for addressing this issue.

The Tanay Local Government has the authority to develop and implement community-based programs. The Department of Education is responsible for ensuring that all Indigenous children have access to quality, inclusive, and culturally relevant education for indigenous students. Meanwhile, the NCIP safeguards Indigenous peoples’ rights and welfare by ensuring that educational programs respect their traditions, customs, and culture, while also extending financial and institutional support to Indigenous learners.

Together, these organizations have the power and resources to ensure that the Dumagat-Remontado Tribe of Tanay, Rizal, can enjoy equal access to quality education

We also call on the people of Tanay, Rizal, to come together and take action in support of Indigenous education.

Advocacy Call for Indigenous Education in Tanay, Rizal

Mr. Rizaldy Cristo, Public School District Supervisor of Tanay, can coordinate with schools and Indigenous communities to ensure that students’ learning needs are properly addressed.

Hon. Rex Manuel Tanjuatco, Municipal Mayor of Tanay, can continue championing inclusive education programs and initiate projects that celebrate Indigenous culture.

Barangay captains and Indigenous leaders can work hand in hand to identify local challenges, support learners, and promote cultural preservation through education.

Local organizations such as the Tanay Youth Development Council (YDC), the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in every barangay, and the Tanay Mountaineers Organization can help through volunteer projects, awareness campaigns, and community-based education drives.

We also appeal to Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, to continue supporting laws and policies that empower Indigenous students through education funding, teacher development, and culture-based learning.

For A Kinder and Inclusive Future for Our Community and Our Country

Together, we hold the power to create lasting change. Let us stand united and support this advocacy for Indigenous education in Tanay. By spreading awareness, volunteering, and lending our voices, we can give every Indigenous learner the chance to be heard, educated, and proud of who they are.

When we support them, we are not only protecting culture — we are building a stronger, kinder, and more inclusive future for everyone.

We call on the Department of Education (DepEd), in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tanay, Rizal, to take immediate and collective action in establishing and strengthening a culturally responsive education program for the Dumagat-Remontado Indigenous Community.

This program should include:

• Developing learning materials written in the local language; 
• Providing teacher training focused on Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) approaches;
• and Involving community elders as cultural resource persons to pass down traditional knowledge and values.

Through this united effort, we can build an education system that is not only inclusive but also deeply respectful of Indigenous identity — one that honors their heritage, empowers their youth, and opens the doors of opportunity for every Dumagat-Remontado child.

Let us stand together to make education a bridge, not a barrier, toward equality, growth, and lasting cultural pride. 

Para sa Kabataan, Para sa Katutubo.