Arnel Abrina, a respected member of the Cuyunon Tribe, was officially sworn in as the new Provincial Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) and Ex-Officio Member of the Provincial Council of Palawan.
The solemn swearing-in ceremony took place in the distinguished Governor’s Conference Room at the Capitol on Monday, August 7, with Governor V. Dennis M. Socrates presiding over the proceedings.
The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Regional Office granted Abrina a Certificate of Affirmation, cementing his position as the authentic representative of the indigenous communities in the province. He succeeds Mrs. Purita Seguritan, assuming the critical role in advocating for the rights and welfare of the indigenous peoples.
The selection process to elect the new IPMR for the province was conducted on June 30, 2023, under the watchful guidance of NCIP-Palawan. In this democratic process, Abrina garnered an overwhelming 57 votes from the IPMR members, out of a total of 70. The election was not without competition, as Angie Gallego from the town of San Vicente, Palawan, contested for the esteemed position.
With Abrina’s oath-taking, the province of Palawan can look forward to a dedicated and passionate leader, working diligently to promote the rights, heritage, and well-being of the indigenous communities.
The IPMR’s role as an Ex-Officio Member of the Provincial Council ensures their voice will be heard and their concerns addressed in policymaking and governance.