Luna, Apayao - Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr. administered the oath of office of John Anthony Amid of Kabugao as the new Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of Apayao today, January 24 at the Provincial Capitol in Luna, Apayao.
IPMR Amid was the lone candidate for the said position after former IPMR Batara Laoat withdrew his candidacy during the IPMR selection conducted by the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) and Apayao Council of Indigenous Elders last year.
"As I vow to be the IP Mandatory Representative, I assure you that I will work in accordance to what is being mandated and also, in coordination to the collective interest of the IP's; we will raise our plans and concerns for review and consultation in the provincial government tapno makita met laeng ni Sir (Gov. Butzy) for approval."
IPMR Amid also stressed in his speech that his legislative actions will depend on the plans of the provincial government for the benefit of the province.
Said selection of IPMR representative is pursuant to Indigenous People's Right Act (IPRA) of 1997, stating that the State shall ensure that the IPs shall be given mandatory representation in policy-making bodies and other legislative councils.
