The Tribal Communities Association of the Philippines (TRICAP) has strongly condemned the recent wave of social media posts containing discriminatory, derogatory, and demeaning remarks against Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs).
TRICAP expressed deep concern that several Facebook posts and online comments have perpetuated harmful stereotypes, ridicule, and hate directed at Indigenous Peoples, undermining their dignity and violating the spirit of equality and respect enshrined in both Philippine and international human rights standards.
“Discrimination against Indigenous Peoples is never acceptable—whether in our communities or on social media,” said Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las, National President of TRICAP.
“Words have consequences. Online platforms should never become spaces where prejudice and historical injustices against Indigenous Peoples are normalized.”
The organization emphasized that such acts run contrary to the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (Republic Act No. 8371), and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), all of which recognize the rights of Indigenous Peoples to dignity, equality, and freedom from discrimination.
TRICAP reminded the public that the First Peoples of the Philippines have long contributed to the country’s history, culture, environmental stewardship, and nation-building. “Our Filipino identity is deeply rooted in Indigenous heritage. To insult Indigenous Peoples is to disregard an important part of our nation’s history,” Sibug-Las added.
In response, TRICAP is calling on all Filipinos, social media users, content creators, educators, media organizations, and digital platforms to reject hate speech, challenge harmful stereotypes, and promote responsible online engagement grounded in respect for cultural diversity.
The organization also renewed its appeal to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Congress to prioritize the passage of a comprehensive National Anti-Discrimination Law that provides stronger legal protection against discrimination, including acts committed through digital and social media platforms.
“For far too long, the First Peoples and First Nations of our country have endured discrimination and exclusion. It is time to end this prolonged injustice and ensure that every Indigenous Filipino is treated with dignity, respect, and equality under the law,” Sibug-Las said.
TRICAP reaffirmed its commitment to working with government, civil society, educational institutions, and the private sector to foster a more inclusive Philippines where Indigenous Peoples are respected as equal partners in nation-building.
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