Puerto Princesa, Palawan - The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), in partnership with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), is set to host the Indigenous People's Games (IPG) on November 18-19 at the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. The event, returning after a two-year hiatus, will feature nine tribes competing in eight traditional sports.
According to Philippines News Agency, Commissioner Matthew 'Fritz' Gaston, who spoke at the Tabloids Organization in Philippine Sports, Inc. (TOPS) 'Usapang Sports' at the PSC Conference Room in Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, the IPG is in line with the PSC's mandate under Republic Act (RA) 8371 to preserve, promote, and propagate the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines' Indigenous Peoples. Gaston highlighted the challenges in coordinating with tribe leaders but credited the NCIP and local officials of Palawan for their support in organizing the event.
The nine participating tribes — Molbog, Palaw'an, Tagbanua Central, Tagbanua Tandolanen, Tabuana Calamianen, Batak, Cuyonon, Agutaynen, and Cagayanen — will compete in traditional sports such as Pana, Sibat, Supok, Pagbayo as Palay, Santik, Trumpo, and Kadang-Kadang. Approximately 196 tribe members are registered to compete, with more expected to join during the Games.
The PSC's IPG aligns with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's (UNESCO) appeal for cultural heritage preservation, offering a unique platform for Indigenous Peoples to showcase their traditional sports and games. The program aims to preserve these sports and games, promote peace and unity among different Indigenous groups, and identify potential talents.
Gaston also mentioned the possibility of conducting IP Games in other parts of the country and potentially organizing National Games for Indigenous Peoples in the future. He noted the diversity of Indigenous groups across the Philippines, from Luzon to Visayas, and the importance of recognizing and supporting their unique cultural practices.
The event also enjoys support from private partners, including Pocari Sweat and Milo. Gaston, a former Philippine Basketball Association player and NCAA champion with Ateneo de Manila University, expressed optimism for a successful event that will benefit the Indigenous communities in Palawan.