NCIP condemns YouTuber Diwata for cultural insensitivity during Panagbenga Festival

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) has issued a statement condemning YouTuber Diwata for his 'demeaning gestures' and cultural insensitivity during the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City.

In its advisory, NCIP-CAR emphasized that traditional attire worn by Diwata is sacred to Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) of Cordillera and requires permission from the community. The group also criticized Diwata for referring to the traditional attire as a 'costume', which they said demeans their customs and identity.

Diwata, whose real name is Deo Balbuena, has been condemned by ICCs/IPs in the Cordillera region for his actions during the festival. The NCIP-CAR stressed that Diwata's portrayal does not accurately represent the values, beliefs, and cultures of the ICCs of Cordillera.

The incident highlights persistent challenges in decolonizing public perceptions towards Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs/IPs) and underscores the need for continued education on cultural awareness and sensitivity. The NCIP-CAR is urging stakeholders to educate their patrons about appropriate use of cultural materials.