First IP Youth Center in Davao Region Launched to Empower Indigenous Youth (IPs)

The first Indigenous Peoples (IP) Youth Center in Davao Region has been established to support the holistic development of IP youth that focuses not only on health, but also on culture, education, livelihood, and leadership.

According to Estelito Ocampo, IP Youth Focal Person of NCIP XI, during the Kapehan sa Dabaw held at SM City Davao on November 10, 2025, more than 50% of ancestral domain land in Region 11 has already been awarded and titled. These lands will now be managed by the IP youth to help build their own economy and community development.

This pilot program is in partnership with DOH and CPD under the SDLG initiative, starting with the establishment of a teen center or ATA Indigenous Cultural Community in Brgy. Malabog, Paquibato District, Davao City.

Ocampo emphasized that many IP youth today face mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and teenage pregnancy, a reason why the center aims to serve as a safe space where young Indigenous people can receive guidance, support, and access to programs that will help them grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and culturally.

In order to help them build their future, the program is also partnering with TESDA to train IP youth in different livelihood skills and opportunities, giving them practical knowledge they can use to earn and sustain their families and communities.

Ocampo added that another important goal of the center is cultural preservation as some traditions and cultural practices are slowly fading. With this initiative, it will aim to bring back and strengthen Indigenous culture among the youth.

Through this IP Youth Center, NCIP XI hopes to develop responsible, dignified, and empowered young Indigenous leaders who will protect their culture and lead their communities toward progress. (Kelvin Aguilon)