Marcos orders NCIP transfer back to presidential office

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the transfer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) from the Department of Social Welfare and Development back to the Office of the President through Executive Order No. 71, effective immediately.

Established under Republic Act 8371, or the Indigenous People's Rights Act of 1997, the NCIP is responsible for creating and implementing policies that promote the welfare of Indigenous Cultural Communities and/or Indigenous Peoples.

The commission plays a crucial role in recognizing ancestral domains and ensuring the well-being of these communities.

Executive Order No. 71, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on October 22, cites Section 17, Article VII of the Constitution to vest control over Executive departments, bureaus, and offices under his power.

By moving the NCIP back to the Office of the President, the administration aims to enhance its effectiveness in promoting and protecting indigenous peoples' rights and welfare.