BOHOL 1st District Rep. Edgar Chatto filed a measure that seeks the establishment of an Indigenous Peoples Training and Learning Center in the province.

House Bill 1823 aims to preserve the culture and language of the Eskayas and provide them livelihood opportunities through education, seminars and literacy programs.

In his explanatory note, Chato said that the population of Bohol province is composed of various indigenous peoples like the Eskayas.

Eskayas have unique cultural heritage, use a distinct language and literature, and have traditional practices that date back to pre-Spanish times.

“Unfortunately, many of these minorities are unable to gain access to sufficient training and education and are therefore unable to competitively seek means of employment and other forms of livelihood,” Chatto said.

House Bill 1823 seeks to tap the resources and expertise of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in coming up with an avenue for education for IPs.

“Education is essential to preserve the unique identities of IPs, as well as for the full development of their potential as individuals and as communities,” Chato said.

The bill mandates the NCIP and TESDA to formulate learning programs and livelihood seminars that are relevant to the needs of the concerned IPs.

The NCIP will also coordinate with the Department of Public Works and Highways on the construction of a building where training and learning sessions shall be conducted.