The Philippines’ first higher education conference on indigenous peoples (IPs) opened on Thursday in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon province, intending to bring IP knowledge and practices in modern industry integration.

Dr. Hazel Jean Abejuela, vice president for academic affairs of Bukidnon State University, lauded the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for organizing the “Bigkis 2024” conference.

Abejuela said the initiative forms part of the university’s commitment to integrating IP knowledge and traditions into its academic curriculum.

“BukSU has introduced culture-responsive courses that incorporate Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices, such as Indigenous Knowledge and Ecology and Indigenous Knowledge Management Systems,” she said.

The two-day conference brought together participants from around the country to formulate mechanisms for strengthening IP education within the higher education system and in the workplace in different industries.

CHED Commissioner Ronald Adamat said the IP knowledge systems are not merely “relics of the past but living testaments to our collective resilience.”

Among the presenters was tribal leader and IP arts and music conservationist Datu Rodelio “Waway” Saway.

Saway said the vibrant traditional music, arts, and dance of the Bukidnon IPs are not merely artistic expressions but also repositories of wisdom, community values, and spiritual connections.

“These cultural forms are living manifestations of enduring traditions and legacies, encapsulating the collective identity and heritage of the indigenous communities,” he said.

Saway, a renowned artist and leader of the Talaandig tribe from Lantapan town, Bukidnon, established the Talaandig School of the Living Traditions with his family. (PNA)