In a news release, the DepEd said this came after consultations with indigenous peoples communities, educators, and civil society support groups nationwide.
“Kami po sa Kagawaran ng Edukasyon ay patuloy na pinag-aaralan ang mga katutubo nating kaalaman. Kami po ay mga guro pero alam ko po na sa larangan ng katutubong kultura ay marami pang dapat malaman. Hindi po kami mga eksperto sa mga bahaging ito. Kaya hinihiling namin… na huwag po ninyo ipagkait sa amin ang mga katutubong kaalaman, bagkus, patunayan po ninyo na kayo ang tunay na nangangatawan sa pinapahalagahan ng ating mga katutubong komunidad,” DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro said.
The guidelines provide guidance on the ethical assessment of learning activities and related engagements of schools, DepEd offices, and other education initiatives that involve aspects of indigenous peoples’ culture.
DepEd credited IP community representatives for being instrumental in crafting the guidelines.
Luistro emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in better understanding indigenous culture in education.
Meanwhile, the DepEd has also been recognizing private educational institutions serving IP learners to promote the right of IP communities to cultural integrity and due recognition of “katutubong kaalaman” in the education system. — Joel Locsin/LBG, GMA News
