A total of 18 new scholars from indigenous communities participated in an orientation about Preda Foundation’s services and advocacies and the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act Law (IPRA Law) at LAKAS Villar Community, Botolan, Zambales on February 23, 2025. These students are mostly from underprivileged indigenous Aeta families whose parents are subsistence farmers and members of the Preda-supported upland farmer indigenous community. They are being supported by Preda Fair Trade in their college education courses. The scholars are very diligent and committed students who see education as the way to overcome poverty and to empower themselves to overcome deprivation and succeed in the modern world.
The various college courses that they are pursuing will give them a strong advantage in seeking gainful employment. The training from Preda and the tribal leaders will strengthen their resolve and determination to preserve their cultural identity, find pride in their heritage and pass on these values of human rights and dignity to others especially their children. They will become graduates in a few years and become professionals in their future employment and be on the road to accomplish their dreams.
The informative discussion, led by Donard Angeles, Roger Hermogino, and chieftain Fe Dumulot Balbin, tackled the importance of preserving and upholding indigenous people’s culture, traditions, and rights.
The event highlighted Preda Foundation’s commitment to fair trade and its advocacy for the rights of indigenous people.
Preda Fairtrade News.
