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Asia Pacific Journal of Advanced Education and Technology

Special Issue, September 2022 / P- ISSN 2815 – 245X / E – ISSN 2815 – 2468 / www.apjaet.com

Needs and Aspirations of Indigenous Peoples in Central Luzon

Joseph C. Revilla
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1904-1243
josephrevilla629@gmail.com
College of Public Administration and Governance, Tarlac State University
Philippines

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54476/apjaet/80965

Abstract

This study investigated the needs and aspirations of Indigenous Peoples in Central Luzon. First, it described
the profile of the Indigenous Peoples. This also discussed the Needs and Aspirations of the Indigenous
Peoples and identify the issues, problems, and concerns they experience in attaining such. Through this,
the study formulated programs, projects, and activities to solve such problems. The study used a descriptive
research design and three (3) instruments in gathering data, namely: interview guide; observation, and
document analysis. As synthesized in the findings of the interview the needs and aspirations of the
Indigenous People in Central Luzon are as follows: Livelihood, education, clean water source, road
improvement, health services, legal services, ancestral domain, respect and implementation of rights,
preservation and showcasing of arts, culture and tradition and leadership. The Problems Encountered
Affecting the Needs and Aspirations of the Indigenous Peoples in Central Luzon are as follows: Conflicting
Claims, Issues in Relocation, Leadership, Isolated Area of Habitat and Injustices, Presence of Lawless
Elements and Recruitment of Communist Terrorist Groups. Lastly, the proposed recommendations to
address the problems encountered affecting the needs and aspirations of the Indigenous Peoples in Central
Luzon are as follows: Resolution of Conflicting Claims, Relocation, Leadership Guidance and Training,
Education, Culturally Sensitive Development within Isolated Area of Habitat and Justice, Implementation
of the Law and Protection and Education regarding the dangers of the communist terrorist struggle.
Keywords: Needs, Aspirations, Indigenous Peoples, Central Luzon

Introduction
Representing nearly 14% of the country's population, the IPs are unique cultural and social groups that
share communal ancestral connections with the land and natural resources they live in, occupy, or are exiled.
(Rovillos & Morales, 2002). As a minority group, the IPs often experience socioeconomic hardships. They
are one of the poorest and most underprivileged social groups in the country. They frequently have a much
higher rate of, poverty, joblessness, and illiteracy (De Vera, 2017). In June 1991, aetas moved to relocation
areas within Tarlac and Pampanga provinces due to volcanic eruption of Mount Pinatubo, however they
originate in Zambales, Tarlac, Panay, Nueva Ecija, Bataan and Pampanga, especially before said eruption
(Cariño, 2012).
As a military officer, the researcher has been designated throughout the Philippines. From Luzon,
Visayas and Mindanao, the researcher was able to meet various Filipino culture, traditions, and people.
Among these people were the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) of the Philippines. As a service to IPs and to the
nation in general, the researcher aims to help the IPs in expressing their needs and aspirations. With this,

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
Revilla, J.C., Needs and Aspirations of Indigenous People in Central Luzon, pp. 1 – 12
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Asia Pacific Journal of Advanced Education and Technology
Special Issue, September 2022 / P- ISSN 2815 – 245X / E – ISSN 2815 – 2468 / www.apjaet.com

the government may have a better understanding of the needs and aspirations of the IPs thus, serves as a
reference in formulating national plans and policies.

Objectives of the Study


This study investigated the needs and aspirations of Indigenous Peoples in Central Luzon. The
demographic profile of the Indigenous People was also determined. In addition, discussed the Needs and
Aspirations of the Indigenous Peoples and identify the issues, problems, and concerns they experience in
attaining such. Through this, the study formulated programs, projects, and activities to solve such problems.

Methodology
The descriptive research design was used in this study. Particularly, this paper used the case study
method, which was a research approach that was used to generate an in-depth, multi-faceted understanding
of a complex issue in its real-life context. The study was conducted within Central Luzon, designated as
Region III. Particularly, the focus of this study is on Tarlac, Pampanga and Zambales (TaPaZ) provinces.
The respondents of the study were purposively selected among three (3) Provinces in Region 3 which
includes: heads of Provincial NCIP offices, IP participants (elders and leaders) each from the 3 provinces
with IPs in Tarlac, Zambales, and Pampanga and the Regional Director of the NCIP Region 3. The
researcher explained the purpose of gathering data and make sure the participant understands clearly to
obtain reliable answers. The researcher also explained that participating in the research was voluntary. The
technique that was used in this research in the selection of actual respondents was purposive sampling.
Further, the following were used to gather data: (1) Interview. (2) Documentary Analysis. Lastly, (3)
Observation.

Results and Discussion


1. Profile of the Indigenous People in Central Luzon

1.1. Tribes
Table 1
Indigenous People win Tarlac, Pampanga and Zambales (TaPaZ) with the corresponding Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title, location,
area size and the number of populations based on the current available data from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (2019).
CADT
Province Location Area (Hectares) ICCs/IPs No. Population
no.
25-A Bamban, Tarlac 10,323.3082 Aeta 2,973
Tarlac 148 San Jose, Tarlac 75.2274 Abelling 478
195 Bamban, Tarlac 11,445.2170 Aeta Magantsi 2,465

57-A Floridablanca, Pampanga 8,218.6655 Ayta Mag-Indi 1,423


Pampanga Porac and Floridablanca,
123 18,660.0522 Ayta 3,507
Pampanga

73 Botolan, Zambales 20,567.8893 Ayta 4,370


151 Cabangan, Zambales 5,430.5088 Aeta 841
Zambales
199 Baugsol, Subic, Zambales 1,302.8113 Aeta Ambala 132
205 Botolan, Zambales 14,127.9426 Aeta 4,645

TOTAL 90,151.62 20,834

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
Revilla, J.C., Needs and Aspirations of Indigenous People in Central Luzon, pp. 1 – 12
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According to the respondents, Ayta is the generic term for the Indigenous People within Tarlac,
Pampanga and Zambales (TaPaZ). The respondents also stated that they call themselves aeta or also spelt
ayta or kulot in Filipino. Moreover, the respondents stated that the “Ayta” spelling is the original one and
that foreigners and some Filipino researchers have introduced the “Aeta” spelling later. Some of the IP
respondents identify themselves simply as aeta/ayta without specifying on any ethnolinguistic group. In
total, in this study, there are currently six (6) IP tribes in TaPaZ namely: Ayta, Abelling, Ayta Ambala, Ayta
Magantsi, Ayta Mag Indi and Ayta Sambal.
1.2. Group Membership
Based on the observations and interviews of respondents there are three (3) factors that are commonly
considered in determining the tribal membership within the IP community in TaPaZ namely: Ancestry
(having a lineage of common decent), Parental Consanguinity (parental blood relation in which at least one
of the parents has an IP ascendant and lastly, Ethnolinguistic (In addition to Ancestral or Parental
Consanguinity, a member shall be able to speak the dialect of the said tribe).
1.3. Political Structure
It is composed of the following: the chieftain serves as the leader of the tribe as well as the one who
calls for a tribal meeting. Second, Tribal Vice Chieftain serves as the Chieftain when the latter is absent.
Third, Tribal Kagawads are composed of seven (7) members. Its function is to create resolutions for the
tribe under customary law. Fourth, the Tribal Secretary serves as the recorder during the tribal meeting.
Sixth, Tribal Treasurer serves as the keeper of tribal funds. Lastly, Elders are the ones who solve any tribal
dispute that can’t be resolved by the tribal officers. This is present in the Sitio/Barangay (smallest political
unit in the Philippines).
1.4. Sources of Income
In general, the following are the sources of income of the Indigenous Peoples in TaPaZ: Farming,
livestock raising, and planting, hunting and fishing, gathering or foraging, tourist guide, Public, private
offices, construction and factory work and others. Almost all of these are directly or indirectly related to
their Ancestral Domains that support the need to preserve and maintain their ancestral rights.

1.5. Health Condition


Presently, according to the respondents, the health situation of the IPs is better compared to the past.
However, some IPs living far away in remote areas have the struggle of accessing healthcare services from
government health facilities. Further, the problem of access to clean water is a challenge to their health.
Finally, some the respondents said that the IPs in general expressed unwillingness to be vaccinated with
COVID-19 vaccine.
1.6. Educational Attainment
According to the respondents, most of the IPs have completed elementary. While some have completed
high school and college undergrads. While a few are college graduates. It was observed that some of the
IPs are still illiterate. In registering or signing for any public documents, some IPs needs assistance in
reading said documents and they use their thumbmarks as an alternative for signature.

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
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1.7. Housing Facility


At present-day, the location of the house is important in determining the type of house of the latter.
They now use modern construction materials, however for those far from the town center or within
mountainous terrains, the traditional use of bamboo, buho and kugon are preferred.

1.8. Mobility
Based on the observations and interviews, at present, Aytas (IPs) are using modern mode of
transportation, particularly, motorcycle (habal-habal), tricycle (kolong-kolong). Likewise, they also use
carabaos with gareta because access to their homes is difficult.

2. Needs and Aspirations of Indigenous Peoples in Central Luzon


Table 2
Needs and Aspiration of the Indigenous People in Central Luzon
Ayta Abelling Ayta Ayta Ayta Mag- Ayta Sambal
Ambala Magantsi Indi
Livelihood ✓ ✓ ✓
Education ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Clean Water Source ✓
Road Improvement ✓
Health Services ✓
Legal Services ✓ ✓ ✓
Ancestral Domain ✓ ✓ ✓
Respect and Implementation of ✓
Human Rights

Preservation of Arts, Culture and ✓


Tradition

Leadership ✓

2.1. Livelihood
The respondents stated that they need capital and land to produce agricultural products. Further,
improving agriculture and farming is also a necessity for the improvement of the production of said
products. However, the preservation of culture and tradition, particularly for agriculture and farming, should
be taken with utmost consideration in addition to the sustainable development and marketability of their
products. Thus, the improvement of which should not mean that their traditional ways of agriculture and
farming be forgotten but rather, this is only to improve the economic aspect of the Ayta people. Most of
their products are consumed by their families. To meet their other needs, some of their crops are sold to the
middlemen who usually lowlanders, small capitalists, or business groups, are the ones who determine the
macro-economic policies that govern the valuation and marketing of their local or indigenous products
while taking advantage of the Aytas' illiteracy, their incapacity to directly transport their produce, and their
lack of market support.

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
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2.2. Education
Especially during this COVID-19 pandemic, the modular education and on-line are a challenge for
the Ayta people in general, particularly those who are living in the remote areas. Further, as a respondent
stated that the modules may be useless if the parents of the ayta child are also illiterate, which is true to
some families. Likewise, the culture and tradition of Aytas shall be considered with utmost importance
since they have needs that are unique to the common people. Further, the “ubos biyaya” mentality whereby
some of them will spend more money or consume products in a short period of time without considering
the long-term economic needs. This mentality needs to be changed through financial education. Finally, for
the Ayta Mag-Indi, respondents stated that they aspire to have an Ayta lawyer from their own tribe.
Currently, they have candidates for this aspiration and is now in college-level education. Further, the
respondents aspire to have more Ayta teachers from their own tribe.
2.3. Clean Water Source
The respondents stated that a source of clean water in their area is needed because of the lack thereof.
Consequently, this will solve the health and sanitary problems of the Aytas since the respondents have said
that some Ayta children got sick because of the lack of clean drinking water.
2.4. Road Improvement
According to the respondents, in some remote areas, the road infrastructures are underdeveloped or
non-existent. Accordingly, this results in the difficulty of movement of Aytas and transportation of supplies,
particularly during the wet season.
2.5. Health Services
The respondents stated that they need health workers to regularly visit their areas as well as the regular
supply of medicine,, particularly in remote areas where pharmacies are non-existent. Likewise, the Ayta
people have different needs in terms of health. In the study of Dr Ernesto Cosme, some Aytas have been
susceptible to malaria by reason of washing their bodies with soap and water. Thus, the ‘dirt’ that they have
before bathing have prevented them from being bitten by malaria carrying mosquitoes.

2.6. Legal Services

The respondents stated that an aggressive and proactive legal service is needed for their quest for
the application of CADT and other related legal and land disputes. Further, it is needed for the signing of
contracts and other documents that some Ayta feel that they are “tricked” to sign without fully
understanding the matters stated therein. Some Aytas have no Birth Certificate or other relevant documents,
particularly those living in remote areas where the birth of an Ayta child was delivered. Further, they need
legal services, particularly in terms of the application and processing of their CADT, the implementation of
their rights and legal advice before entering contracts, as stated by the respondents that some of them does
not fully understand the contents of a contract.
2.7. Respect and implementation of rights
Some of the respondents stated that the rights of the Ayta people are not well respected or
implemented. For example, one of the respondents stated that the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC)

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
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Special Issue, September 2022 / P- ISSN 2815 – 245X / E – ISSN 2815 – 2468 / www.apjaet.com

principle is not being fully implemented in some projects within their ancestral domains (claimed or with
CADT). As such, they are expressing their aspiration for the fulfillment of the FPIC principle to be strictly
implemented.
2.8. Preservation and showcasing of Arts, Culture, and Tradition
The respondents have expressed eagerness to preserve their arts, culture, and tradition. Particularly,
some respondents aspire to showcase their culture and tradition by building museums and participating in
cultural activities and meetings, and they aspire that the local and foreign media take cognizance of their
unique arts, culture, and tradition.
2.9. Leadership
There are a group of Ayta Sambal at Subic, Zambales who have no local chieftain and elders.
According to the respondents, their chieftain has given up on them and went into hiding. Currently. They
are living outside their claimed ancestral domain.

3. Problems Encountered Affecting the Needs and Aspirations of the Indigenous Peoples in Central
Luzon
Table 3
Problems encountered affecting the needs and aspirations of the IPs (Aytas) in Central Luzon
Ayta Abelling Ayta Ayta Magantsi Ayta Mag-Indi Ayta
Ambala Sambal
Conflicting Claims ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Issues in Relocation ✓
Issues in Leadership ✓ ✓ ✓
Issues in Education ✓ ✓
Isolated Area of Habitat ✓

Injustices, Presence of Lawless


Elements and Recruitment of ✓ ✓ ✓
Communist Terrorist Groups

Issues in the Preservation of



Culture and Tradition

3.1. Conflicting Claims

Based on the observation, interviews, document analysis and the foregoing needs and aspirations,
table 3 shows the problems encountered affecting the needs and aspirations of the IPs (Aytas) in Central
Luzon. Particularly in areas where there are other claimants other than the Ayta people, it is necessary that
such claims be resolved in the legal manner. The application of CADT is essential to this matter, however
since the IPRA was enacted in 1997, there are land titles, reservations, and other claims made by parties
other than the Ayta before the enactment of said law. This has caused conflicting claims even with the later
issuance of the CADT. Further, as stated by other respondents, some Ayta people sell their own land to
non-Aytas.

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
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3.2. Issues in Relocation

According to respondents, there are Ayta communities who are residing outside their Ancestral
Domain because of the conflicting claims and the eruption of Mt Pinatubo. Others are in residing in the way
of private, national, and local infrastructure projects. Without the relocation, the needs and aspirations of
the Ayta people is jeopardized. In Sitio Tarukan, Brgy Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac, the Municipal
government of Capas, NCIP, NHA, and the PAF-DND is still in the process of relocating the Ayta people
from Sitio Tarukan. Said Sitio is within the danger zone that is identified by the AFP since the Sitio is
within the vicinity of the gunnery ranges that are being used for live fire military exercises and disposal of
explosive ordnances by the AFP, PNP and other private and government agencies.

3.3. Issues in Leadership

According to some respondents, there are issues regarding the leadership within IP particularly in
the aspects of Unity and Political Will. Further, as observed by the researcher there are IPOs and IPS who
have issues in terms of the qualification of leaders within IPs particularly, some Aytas argued that people
who are not a 100% Aytas should not lead but others argued that all people considered being Aytas (by
Ancestry, Parental Consanguinity and Ethnolinguistic) should lead. Particularly in Zambales, some
respondents stated that the tribal leader or IPMR are not existent in their area/group. Further, according to
a document source, the fill up percentage of IPMRs in 69% for Tarlac, 62% for Pampanga and 47% for
Zambales.

3.4. Issues in Education

According to the respondents, the Aytas have special needs in education, particularly since many of
them have not completed their basic education when they are young. Thus, some Aytas may not be
motivated to study since they may be needing to earn money and help their family. Further, a respondent
explained that Aytas should be educated on how to manage and spend resources and money. Since it has
been observed that some Aytas have the attitude of spending all their money in a single time. Further,
because of the regular outreach programs of Government and NGOs, some Aytas have the attitude of solely
relying on these programs without working on their own needs. Thus, the self-sustenance of Aytas as well
as work ethics are not fully developed.

3.5. Isolated Area of Habitat

As stated earlier, some Ayta areas of habitation are far away from civilization. Thus, improvement,
economic activities and basic services are absent in their area. As stated by some respondents, some Ayta
communities are far away that it is needed to be visited by social workers and teachers. Likewise, Ayta
people within mountain ranges like those of Bamban, Capas, Tarlac and Botolan, Zambales are far away
and isolated. Some parts of it still have no electricity.
4. Injustices, Presence of Lawless Elements and Recruitment of Communist Terrorist Groups

There are some Aytas that because of financial difficulties have chosen to break the law. Particularly
in their areas, some of them have participated in illegal logging activities that are masterminded/perpetrated
by non-Aytas. Likewise, the presence of recruitment and other illegal activities of the communist terrorist

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
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group (NPA) is still ongoing, particularly in remote areas that are far from economic development. The
injustices that the Aytas have experienced and the lack of knowledge regarding the criminal justice system
of the country have resulted in some Aytas taking the law in their hands. Particularly, a respondent has
stated that they would rather spill their blood than to give up their rights (i.e. ancestral domain). As a
respondent stated: “The IPs (Ayta) are like fish in the fond, without freedom, where any day, anytime can
be picked.” The needs and aspirations of the Ayta people should be addressed.

5. Issues in the Preservation of Culture and Tradition

According to the respondents, the modern way of life has a great impact to the minds and way of
life of the Abelling youth especially those who are living with non-IPs. Some respondents have stated that
some Abelling youth have considered their tradition and culture to be taboo, such as their songs and dances
which the youth would prefer the modern songs and dances, and the wearing of bahag which they see as
primitive.

6. Proposed Recommendations address the problems encountered affecting the needs and
aspirations of the Indigenous Peoples in Central Luzon

The following are the proposed recommendations for addressing the problems encountered affecting
the needs and aspirations of the Indigenous Peoples in Central Luzon. The Government may take notice on
the needs of the Aytas particularly their specific needs and act on every matter. The different agencies shall
participate in this area since this is not a one time and one fits all solution. That is to say that as discussed
earlier, the Aytas have different needs that shall be fulfilled. The ‘spearheading’ of the different Government
agencies is essential in solving these problems. Additionally, the ‘collective effort’ of these agencies is also
essential since there is no single solution to these problems.

6.1. Resolution of Conflicting Claims

The resolution of this problem shall be spearheaded by the NCIP in partnership with the Public
Attorney’s Office (PAO). The NCIP, though having its own legal team, may find a collective effort in
resolving this issue. Further, the employment of other private legal services is also encouraged. The Court
should step in to decide the legality and the legitimacy of the claims of both parties. The Land Registration
Authority should assist in identifying the validity of the land titles being held by said private individuals.
Finally, the National Government should focus on resolving these conflicting claims, particularly in the
case of the Crow Valley Military Reservation. The creation of a memorandum, policies, and presidential
proclamation to resolve this issue should be considered.

6.2. Relocation

The National Housing Authority (NHA) shall spearhead the relocation of the concerned Ayta
groups. The NCIP and LGUs however, shall assist the relocation of the concerned Ayta groups since they
are the one who are more knowledgeable with the situation of the latter. Further, the LGU and the DSWD
may help providing the basic needs of the Ayta groups during and after relocation until the latter can provide
their basic needs after being relocated.

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
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6.3. Leadership Guidance and Training


The NCIP and the DILG shall spearhead the solution for this matter. The NCIP shall issue guidance
regarding problems in each Ayta tribe and shall guide the Ayta leaders in leading their tribes/groups.
Likewise, the DILG shall act as a supervisor of the said matters, giving supervision and advise in every
case. Further, the NCIP, DILG and CHED shall formulate culturally sensitive programs to educate the Ayta
leaders in matters of self-governance. There shall be a policy regarding the protection of IPs on the contracts
or trades that they may be involved, particularly those that are related to their ancestral domains and self-
governance. Finally, the NCIP with all the Ayta leaders shall formulate a policy regarding the qualifications
of the Ayta leaders, particularly the identity of the Ayta member (Ancestry, Parental Consanguinity and
Ethnolinguistic).

6.4. Education

The Dep Ed, CHED and TESDA shall have a collective effort into dealing with this problem.
Particularly, in solving the illiteracy of Ayta people. Since there are Aytas who are adults that still need
basic education, a “ladderized program” fit for them shall be formulated and implemented. Further, said
Aytas is recommended to have trade skills since they may not be motivated in finishing college. This is to
ensure that the latter can be employment competitive in terms of skills.

6.5. Culturally Sensitive Development within Isolated Area of Habitat

Isolated areas should be developed. However, this shall be in strict adherence with the cultures and
traditions of the Ayta tribes. The NCIP, LGUs, DPWH, DOST and other related government agencies shall
have a collective effort in developing these areas. The NCIP shall supervise the adherence of the developers
to culture and tradition of the Ayta people. The LGUs shall support the DPWH, DOST and other related
government agencies in formulating projects and programs in relation thereto.

6.6. Justice, Implementation of the Law and Protection and Education regarding the dangers of the
communist terrorist struggle

The DOJ and PNP shall have a collective effort in solving the injustices done to the Ayta people.
The Commission on Human Rights shall spearhead the solution of injustices wherein government forces
are involved. The DSWD shall spearhead the livelihood programs as an alternative to illegal logging and
the DENR shall ensure the solving of these cases. However, since the Aytas are involved, it is recommended
that the latter shall be educated on the illegality of said activities and that the latter may help the government
in bringing the perpetrators and masterminds to justice. Finally, the PNP and the AFP shall continue their
effort in educating the Ayta people regarding the dangers of the communist terrorist struggle and that the
rule of law shall prevail. That the government mechanisms in dealing with their issues is working and that
the armed struggle is useless. Finally, the latter shall protect the Ayta people from any attacks, harassment,
and threats from communist terrorist groups.

6.7. Preservation of Culture and Tradition

The resolution of this problem shall be made by the Abelling themselves particularly the Chieftains
and the Elders. They should teach the youth the importance of their culture and tradition. An environment

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
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of acceptance of their culture and tradition shall be made to minimize or prevent the negative perception of
the youth towards their culture and tradition. The NCIP shall also continue programs and projects relating
to the preservation of culture and tradition. The Dep ED shall also help implement programs and projects
that will preserve and showcase the importance of the cultures and traditions of the Abelling tribe, especially
to the Filipino youth.

7. Contribution to the Administration of Government agencies within Central Luzon particularly


concerning the Ayta people

This study contributes to the body of knowledge with regard to the administration within the
Philippine government. The study of the needs and aspirations of the Indigenous people in Central Luzon
may contribute to the study and improvement of the NCIP, Region 3 LGUs and other concerned government
agencies’ capacity in forming policies, making decisions, implementation and securing the desired results
regarding the lives of the indigenous people in central Luzon. Further, this will help the national government
in formulating policies that is included in the National Development Plan.

7.1. Providing data to the study of Public Administration

Particularly, this serves as a reference in the study of public administration. This will add to the data
that may be considered in checking, creating, and updating theories principles and concepts regarding public
administration. For example, this study has found out that the Ayta people has yet to establish unity among
their leadership. Thus, the Ayta leadership still needs the Unity of Command which is one of Henri Fayol’s
principle of management. Proving the relevance of the matter.

7.2. Reference in the self-governance of the Ayta people

The Ayta people will now have a basis in determining the strong and weak aspects of their self-
governance, particularly in the field of socio-economic development. This is also a reference for testing
the right course of action in the matters discussed earlier.

7.3. Reference in the actual implementation of laws, government policies and programs

The implementation of IPRA will be tested. The effectiveness of the government policies and
programs regarding the Ayta people will be confirmed. Thus, the continuous change or update of said
matters may be realized.

Conclusions

Based on the synthesis of the findings of this study, the following were drawn:
The Indigenous people in Central Luzon, particularly in Tarlac, Pampanga and Zambales, are the
Aytas (Aetas) that are composed of different groups based on ethno linguistics. The profile of the Ayta
people is almost like each other. The needs and aspirations of the Ayta people revolves in the socio-
economic spectrum and their rights, particularly with their ancestral domains. The problems that
Encountered Affecting the Needs and Aspirations of the Ayta people are also almost the same though the
details may differ. The Proposed Recommendations address the problems encountered affecting the needs

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
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and aspirations are composed of legal, cultural, economic, educational, and developmental solutions. The
research has provided updated data and information to the study of public administration as well as for the
application of the latter in Philippine governance.

Recommendations

Based on the conclusions of the study, the following recommendations were derived.

1. The implementation of present government laws, policies, and programs regarding the Ayta people
shall be continued. Further, it shall be updated in accordance with the present needs and aspirations
of the latter.
2. The socio-economic aspects of the Ayta people should be considered. Their rights should be
considered with utmost importance. Further, the guidance of a more capable leader from the
government and private sector will be supportive in the development of the leadership skills of the
latter’s leaders in accordance with the modern techniques.
3. The problems of the Ayta people are almost the same, however, differ in detail. Thus, more detailed
research is recommended in the future.
4. The legal, cultural, economic, educational, and developmental solutions discussed earlier shall be
implemented or taken into consideration by the concerned agencies.

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Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
Revilla, J.C., Needs and Aspirations of Indigenous People in Central Luzon, pp. 1 – 12
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Asia Pacific Journal of Advanced Education and Technology
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Empeño, H. (2017). Subic Aytas preserve roots while embracing the new. Headline Zambales Online.
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APJAET. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative
Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 International License (http://creative
commons.org/licenses/by/4).

Proceedings of the Asia Pacific Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (APCMR), 30 – 31 July 2022
Revilla, J.C., Needs and Aspirations of Indigenous People in Central Luzon, pp. 1 – 12
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