THE PERCEIVED EFFECTS OF R.A. 8371 ON INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S EMPOWERMENT AND SELF-GOVERNANCE IN BASULTA

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the perceived effects of Republic Act No. 8371 (R.A. 8371), also known as the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA), on the empowerment and self-governance of indigenous communities within the Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi (BASULTA) region of the Philippines2. IPRA, enacted in 1997, aimed to recognize and protect the rights of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs) to their ancestral domains, self-governance, social justice, human rights, and cultural integrity. Despite the law’s progressive intentions, its implementation has faced challenges, and this research sought to understand how indigenous communities in BASULTA perceive its impact on their empowerment, self-governance, and overall well-being. The findings were intended to provide valuable insights for evidence-based policies and programs aimed at promoting indigenous rights and sustainable development in the region.

KEYWORDS: BaSulta, Jolo Sulu, Tawi Tawi, Basilan, IP, IPRA, ICC