Participation in the Regular Meeting of FAMATODI: Strengthening IP Involvement in Tamaraw Conservation

The Fakasadian Mangagoyang Tau-Buid Daga, Inc. (FAMATODI), a registered Indigenous Peoples Organization (IPO) of the Taobuid tribe, continues to be a key partner in Tamaraw conservation and ancestral domain protection in the Mts. Iglit-Baco Natural Park (MIBNP). As part of ongoing coordination efforts under the Thriving Together with Tamaraw Consortium, members of the consortium—D’ABOVILLE Foundation and Demo Farm, Inc. (DAF) and Mindoro Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc. (MBCFI), participated in the regular meetings of FAMATODI held on November 28 and December 18, 2024.

The first meeting introduced the rationale behind the consortium’s support for tamaraw conservation, tracing key policies like the IPRA and early conservation efforts. DAF emphasized that the program is grounded in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples and aims to support both biodiversity and IP rights. Discussions were translated in the Fanaubuid, the Taobuid’s language, to ensure clear understanding and inclusive participation.

During the December 18 meeting, FAMATODI leaders and elders, led by Chairman Roberto Perez and Juanito Lumawig Sr., agreed to dedicate time in future regular meetings for discussions related to Tamaraw conservation. A framework for “capacity building” was presented, focusing on four key elements: knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values. Using this as a guide, participants identified specific topics they would like to learn more about, including environmental laws, law enforcement, forest protection, conservation leadership, and inter-agency coordination.

Elders also provided insights from the Community Conservation Plan (CCP), reaffirmed the importance of aligning customary and government laws, and expressed interest in further involvement in ranger training and conservation planning. The meeting concluded with reflections from Juanito Lumawig Sr., who emphasized the urgency of finalizing the Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plan (ADSDPP) and ensuring that IP-led efforts demonstrate that Indigenous Peoples are partners, not obstacles, in both conservation and development.

These meetings reflect the growing collaboration between conservation partners and Indigenous communities, highlighting shared responsibility in protecting Tamaraws and sustaining ancestral lands.