CORDILLERA AUTONOMY SPIELS FOR

MR. AND MS. MT. PROVINCE 20231

INSTRUCTIONS:
- Each number/ topic is assigned to a candidate
- Each candidate will find the topic assigned to him/ her and shall memorize it. And
he/ she will state it during the Activity: Video shoot on Cordillera Autonomy Spiel
scheduled on March 31, 2023.

1. Recognition of Indigenous Rights (BARLIG- MALE)

Our region is home to a diverse range of indigenous peoples with distinct cultures and ways of
life. Mt. Province alone has the Kankana-eys, B[F]untoks, and Balangaos, among many others.
However, our indigenous communities face challenges in terms of recognition and protection of
our rights, including the right to self-determination and the protection of our cultural heritage.
Representing the municipality of [municipality], I am committed to advocating for Cordillera
Regional Autonomy as a means of promoting the preservation, recognition, and protection of
the rights of indigenous peoples of Mt. Province and in the Cordillera region and promoting our
full participation in the social and economic life of our region.
I am [name], and I am for autonomy in our region and support the fight for the recognition of
our indigenous rights.

2. Sustainable Development (BARLIG- FEMALE)

Sustainable development is critical to our region, and ultimately, our future. Our region is a well-
known treasure trove of natural resources. Development in our region should be sustainable as
it seeks to balance economic growth, environmental protection, and cultural preservation.
Representing the municipality of [municipality], I support Cordillera Regional Autonomy as it
advocates sustainable development practices of our ili and our region, which prioritizes the
preservation of natural resources, the promotion of inclusive economic growth, and the
protection of rights as Indigenous People. With Cordillera Regional Autonomy, we are given a
unique opportunity for economic growth, and ultimately, a lower poverty rate.
My name is [name], and I support Cordillera Regional Autonomy and the development it
promises.

3. Education (BAUKO- MALE)

Education is a critical component of social mobility and economic empowerment. Many of our
indigenous communities here in the Cordillera region face challenges when it comes to
accessing quality education, some of which are poor internet connectivity, unpaved roads,
obsolete school equipment, and shared classrooms, just to name a few. Representing the
municipality of [municipality], I am committed to advocating for the autonomy of our region as
it offers us better education opportunities, particularly for us in the indigenous communities,
and promotes the value of education as a means of achieving social and economic mobility.

1
Note that these spiels are introductory in nature, as such will only show what the contestant promotes/advocates and shall not delve into the
“hows”.
 Education is a critical factor in promoting economic development. With your support of regional
autonomy, you are supporting me in my advocacy for quality education for our people.
I am [name], and for the future of our youth and ili, I support the autonomy of our region.

4. Health and Wellness (BAUKO -FEMALE)

The World Health Organization defines health as "a state of complete physical, mental and social
well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity". Various factors such as
geographical location, limited infrastructure, inadequate funding, and cultural barriers are some
of the challenges that our region and our communities face in terms of receiving healthcare and
wellness services. Mt. Province alone has a lot of remote areas that need these services. We
have seen in our experience with the pandemic that, because of our way of life and our culture,
we can stand as one with whatever challenges that may come. However, there can only be so
much that our unity can do. We still need access to healthcare and wellness services as this is
our fundamental human right. An answer to this is the autonomy of our region. As such, I take
this opportunity to show my support for regional autonomy and be an advocate for the well-
being of our people.
I am [name]. For a holistic lifestyle, I support the autonomy of our region.

5. Economic Empowerment (BESAO- MALE)

Greater control and decision-making given to our pangamaen and local political leaders over our
economic resources and providing knowledge, skills, and resources to our entrepreneurs to
further our economic status are some of the forms we can be empowered economically. Taking
the opportunity of this platform, I am committed to supporting the growth and development of
Mt. Province’s local industries and businesses, especially those that are centered on our culture,
as a means of promoting economic empowerment and reducing poverty; with regional
autonomy, we can enable our ili to preserve and promote our unique cultural heritage. We
know that what we have, what we are, and what we do are assets for tourism and cultural
industries, and with all of these lies the need for regional autonomy.
I am [name], and for the greater good of our ili and its economic growth, I support our region’s
bid for regional autonomy.

6. Cultural Preservation (BESAO- FEMALE)

Teng-aw, ob-obbo, lumdang, begnas, pakde. These are just some of the many practices that
celebrate our cultural uniqueness and identity as indigenous people of Mt. Province. Kankana-
ey, Finallig-as, Kenachakran, B[F]untok. Our practices and language is an essential element of
our culture, and of who we are, and it reflects our ili’s unique identity, values, beliefs, and
customs. It is through our practices and language that we can express ourselves, articulate our
thoughts and emotions, and convey our cultural heritage and traditions. Representing the i-
[tribe/municipality], I am committed to advocating for the preservation and promotion of our
unique cultural heritage.
I am [name], and with regional autonomy, I advocate for the preservation of our culture and
language, the essentials to the identity and well-being of our ili.

7. Eco-Cultural Tourism (BONTOC -MALE)

 Mt. Province is home to breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, diverse flora and fauna, and
hospitable and affable people. We are a prime tourist destination in our region and with our
growing tourism industry, we have to promote its sustainability through eco-cultural tourism. As
the representative of [municipality], I advocate for eco-cultural tourism. By minimizing the
negative impacts of tourism on our ecology and maximizing positive economic, social, and
cultural benefits, our local tourism industry can create jobs, stimulate our local economy, and
empower our ili. With ecotourism, cultural tourism, and community-based tourism, we can
contribute to the long-term success of our tourism for generations to come.
My name is [name], and with my advocacy of eco-cultural tourism, I support our autonomy as a
region.

8. Infrastructure Development (BONTOC - FEMALE)

Connecting communities is a crucial step in the progress of our barangays. With the
development of our infrastructure, our local communities are given the opportunity for faster
and better economic growth. Our development would not only be centered on major towns but
even the remote ones. Adequate infrastructure facilitates the movement of people and goods,
enabling businesses to expand and operate more efficiently. With the topography and
geographical location of many of our towns, transportation is difficult, but with enough budget
allocation, we can hope for a better quality of life. Hailing from [municipality], and standing as
one with the local farmers and entrepreneurs of Mt. Province, my advocate is the development
of our infrastructure, a critical step in promoting the development of our ili.
My name is [name], and I support regional autonomy that promotes the growth of our local
industries through improved infrastructure.

9. Gender Equality (NATONIN -MALE)

Equal rights. Equal opportunities. Equal treatment in the workplace regardless of gender. Mt.
Province, and our region in general, though patriarchal in nature, does not diminish the role of a
person in terms of gender. We are blessed that more and more government and civic
organizations are promoting gender equality in our society. As we continue to promote our
cultural heritage, we make it a point that no one is left behind, regardless of their gender.
Representing [municipality], I am committed to supporting initiatives that promote gender
equality and empower men, women, and the LGBTQ in our ili, including and especially
leadership development programs.
I am [name], and I advocate for an equitable society, where all individuals have the opportunity
to thrive regardless of their gender.

10. Dialogue and Education on Peace and Reconciliation (NATONIN -FEMALE)

Mt. Province is no stranger to conflicts and tensions rooted in cultural and ideological
differences. Our ancestors have had and have been continuously fighting for our land and
cultural preservation against irresponsible and unemphatic development plans. There have been
many continuing physical altercations between our people and the government, but what is
most important is recognizing and honoring what our forebearers fought for and it is our
responsibility to protect what they’ve been fighting for. Through dialogue and proper education
of our youth, we can have a more inclusive and tolerant society that values diversity and fosters
 cooperation and collaboration. Representing the municipality of [municipality], I am committed
to supporting the bid for our region’s autonomy as a means to promote peace and reconciliation
among the different communities in our region and the government.
I am [name], and supporting regional autonomy and peace, I am an advocate of honest dialogue
and understanding to build a more peaceful and harmonious ili. Matago-tago tako am-in.

11. Environmental Protection (PARACELIS – MALE)

Our province boasts of rich biodiversity and natural resources that our forebearers have been
continuously protecting. Rooted in our adherence to our inayan philosophy, we continued to
thrive alongside nature, and as she continues to provide for our necessities, we take
responsibility for her sustainable development. Our economic development is centered on our
natural resources. Our land, rivers, and forests give us the tool for global competitiveness. Our
responsibility then lies in our work on reforestation, waste management, and sustainable
agricultural practices to protect our environment and ensure the long-term stability of our
region. As we then live following inayan, our actions should promote sustainable practices that
cater to the needs of our environment. With autonomy at the helm of our economic growth and
cultural preservation, I stand with our local government and civic organizations who continue to
protect our environment, our land, and our future.
My name is [name], and representing the municipality of [municipality], I advocate for the
protection of our environment, essentially our life.

12. Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (PARACELIS – FEMALE)

With the topography and the geographical location of our province, and our region in general,
we are prone to natural disasters all year long. We have experienced firsthand the devastating
effects of these disasters and know all too well the pain and suffering that comes with losing our
loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. Given the opportunity through this platform, my advocacy
lies in supporting initiatives that promote disaster risk reduction and management. We stand
with our local government as we take measures that can help us better be prepared for natural
disasters and mitigate their impact on our ili. With the promise of an enhanced local
government through regional autonomy, we shall have a community that is better equipped and
increase our resilience and capacity to recover from disasters.
I am [name] of [municipality], and I support regional autonomy as we prepare ourselves for a
better and more resilient province.

13. Youth Empowerment (SABANGAN – MALE)

We know that the youth are the future of our province, and their voices and perspectives are
critical to shaping our future. With regional autonomy that can empower and support the local
government to promote comprehensive programs for the children and youth, I stand for
advocacies toward youth empowerment initiatives, including access to education and training
programs, leadership development, and civic engagement opportunities, to ensure that we, the
youth, are equipped with the skills and resources needed to succeed and contribute to the
development of their ili.
My name is [name], and supporting Cordillera Regional Autonomy, I am for and shall support
our local government’s work on youth empowerment programs.
14. Livelihood Development (SABANGAN – FEMALE)
Micro-enterprises, skills training, and financial training program. These are just some of the
necessities that are critical to the economic growth of our local businesses and our ili. With
regional autonomy empowering local governments to take charge of their sustainable and
inclusive economic growth, our local businesses and individual entrepreneurs are given better
opportunities to acquire the necessary knowledge and competencies. As a representative of
[municipality], I am committed to advocating for livelihood development initiatives that would
promote economic growth and reduce poverty in our province.
I am [name], and I strongly believe that regional autonomy, along with micro-enterprise
development and skills training, could play a vital role in achieving these goals and building a
brighter future for our ili.

15. Social Services (SADANGA – MALE)

Access to social services, including housing, water and sanitation, and social protection
programs, is not only a basic human right but also essential to ensuring the well-being of people.
We take pride in our resilience to rise beyond the challenges that we face. Despite this, many of
our remote towns still need social services or programs that can provide a safety net,
particularly during times of crisis or economic hardship. We laud our local government units and
civic organizations especially during the pandemic as they have worked tirelessly for our
protection. The “Free Range Chicken Raising Project” of our PLGU and the “Monitoring of
Movement Project” of our ITF for Covid-19 are some social services that kept the economic
stability of our province during the pandemic. Programs such as these help improve our access
to basic services such as healthcare and education. Representing [municipality], I am committed
to advocating for improved access to social services, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable
communities of our province
My name is [name], and I believe that everyone deserves access to basic services that promote
their dignity and well-being.

16. Indigenous Knowledge System and Practices (SADANGA – FEMALE)

Recognizing and promoting indigenous knowledge and innovations of our people is a key
element in the pursuit of regional autonomy for our region. It acknowledges the importance of
our cultural heritage and empowers our local government to take greater control over its affairs,
resources, and development. Mt. province’s traditional weaving community, heirloom rice
production, pottery industry, and the growing coffee industry are but some of the many
livelihood projects that are anchored on traditional practices that have been part of our cultural
heritage. Supporting this indigenous knowledge and innovations can lead to greater economic
and social development for our province and our region as a whole.
I am [name] of [municipality], and I advocate for the enhancement of our Indigenous Knowledge
Systems and Practices. Yes to Autonomy.

17. Good Governance (SAGADA – MALE)

Good governance is a fundamental principle that is essential for sustainable development, as it
ensures that public resources are used effectively and efficiently to promote the well-being of
 the people in a region. A well-governed province is characterized by transparency,
accountability, citizen participation, and the rule of law. With regional autonomy, we are
provided an opportunity to have a greater voice in the utilization and management of our
resources. Representing [municipality], I support and advocate for the prioritization of good
governance initiatives, especially citizen participation.
I am [name], and I support regional autonomy as a critical way for promoting social justice,
reducing corruption, and ensuring the effective delivery of public services in our province.

18. Technology and Innovation (SAGADA – FEMALE)

The development and sustainability of agricultural practices, infrastructure development,
enhanced internet connectivity, and development of machinery are but some techniques and
innovations that are needed to drive the potential economic growth of our province. We are
known for our age-old farming practices that are sustainable and help improve crop yields. With
the adoption of farming technologies suitable to our highland farming practices and investing in
and supporting our farmers and local businesses, our province can rise above and catch up to
the more developed provinces of our country.
From [municipality], I am [name], and I advocate for the autonomy of our region as well as the
promotion of our culture and identity through responsive technological innovations.

19. Human Rights and Social Justice (TADIAN – MALE)

Human rights and social justice are fundamental to promoting dignity and well-being for all
people. Throughout our history, we have long struggled for recognition and respect for our
rights as indigenous peoples, including our right to self-determination, cultural integrity, and
ancestral lands. A step towards ensuring that we have a government that is inclusive and
participatory and that the rights and needs of all members of our community are taken into
account is through regional autonomy. Our age-old judicial process is grounded on our cultural
practices that promote the well-being and empowerment of all members of the community,
such as our dap-ay. The empowerment of these cultural practices ensures human rights and
social justice. Supporting regional autonomy, I am [name] of [municipality], advocating for the
recognition and protection of human rights and social justice initiatives of our province and
region, including the promotion of equality, non-discrimination, and social inclusion.

20. Community Empowerment (TADIAN – FEMALE)

A society anchors all its success to the progress of its individual smaller communities. When
empowered, meaning from laws to practices and all the way to developmental projects, the
community is recognized and involved. This promotes sustainable livelihood development
among the people and thus reduces poverty in the society. Hailing from [municipality], I am
committed to advocating for community empowerment initiatives, including participatory
decision-making, community-based planning and development, and the promotion of local
initiatives and solutions, to ensure that communities in our municipality and the region have the
resources and support they need to thrive and achieve their full potential. I am [name], and I
support the autonomy advocacy and the empowerment of our communities.