Solid North Party-list Rep. Ching Bernos urged local government units (LGUs) to document and preserve the Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSP) of communities to prevent the loss of cultural heritage.
Bernos, vice chairperson of the House Committee on Indigenous Cultural Communities and Indigenous Peoples, said LGUs are well-positioned to work with community elders and holders of traditional knowledge.
She encouraged local governments to collaborate with academic researchers and other institutions to ensure systematic documentation that respects indigenous cultures.
Bernos said indigenous knowledge on environmental protection, traditional farming, herbal medicine, weather forecasting, and community governance could help guide government policies.
She also urged schools to integrate indigenous knowledge into their curricula, citing an Abra school that offers traditional weaving lessons reflecting Tingguian culture.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 11, 2026
