Japan, Agusan Sur strengthen int’l partnership through new IP training center
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — The partnership between the province of Agusan del Sur and Japan, through BAMATA Tribal Inc., continues to strengthen through projects that promote inclusive development, education, and empowerment for Indigenous communities.
BAMATA Tribal Inc. in Agusan del Sur, a non-government organization (NGO), whose name was derived from the three Indigenous groups—the Banwaon, Manobo, and Talaandig—received a project grant amounting to approximately P3.5 million for the continued construction of the new BAMATA Tribal Training Center during the turnover ceremony for the project named, ‘Construction of Training Center for BAMATA Community in Agusan del Sur.’ The momentous event was also attended by Consul General Ono of Japan.
The project was funded through Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) and was formally turned over on May 25 in Barangay 3, San Francisco.
Reverend Datu Balvino ‘Bhen’ Andaya, also known as Datu Kalamboan and president of BAMATA Tribal Inc., expressed his gratitude and happiness upon receiving the project.
“We are happy that the Indigenous community has received recognition, and this project will also help improve our living conditions. It is a big help for us, especially in education,” said Datu Kalamboan.
“This is the second project from Japan. The first one was way back in 2009, which helped us build a literacy classroom that later became a National High School in Sitio Tumalog, Barangay Zillovia, Talacogon. This is also in line with one of our objectives, which is to enhance education for Indigenous Peoples,” he added.
Datu Kalamboan further emphasized that the organization aims to provide accessible education and skills training opportunities for Indigenous peoples (IPs) to help improve their knowledge, capabilities, and future opportunities.
“BAMATA also seeks to empower Indigenous communities by strengthening leadership, participation, and self-reliance among our members,” he said
He added that, in terms of economic development, “BAMATA promotes livelihood programs and capacity-building initiatives that help increase income and improve the quality of life of IP families, especially those living in remote and mountainous areas of Agusan del Sur.”
Datu Kalamboan also highlighted that the organization advocates for environmental protection and the preservation of Indigenous culture and heritage, ensuring that ancestral traditions, values, and natural resources are safeguarded for future generations.
Under Japan’s continued support through its grassroots assistance program, the BAMATA Tribal Training Center is expected to become a vital hub for learning, livelihood, and cultural preservation for the Banwaon, Manobo, and Talaandig communities. The initiative also reflects the shared commitment of Japan and Agusan del Sur in uplifting marginalized sectors, fostering sustainable development, and building stronger international cooperation for future generations. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur with photos from the Consulate General of Japan in Davao)
