2 weeks Ago
In a TikTok post that has since gone viral, a group of travelers at the Pinatubo trail during the Holy Week found a blockade set up the local Aeta community, who alleged that the government and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) has done nothing for their needs and they have not been fairly compensated by the tourism office.Now, a week after the viral TikTok video was posted, the NCIP has put out a statement addressing the situation, as well as the report that five members of the Aeta community have been apprehended by police.According to the NCIP, the individuals “briefly taken into custody” have already been released with no charges filed.
The commission added that they are seeking an explanation as to why Indigenous Peoples who are peacefully airing their grievances were taken into custody.The commission also insisted that they have been working together with Aeta community and the local government unit of Capas, Tarlac as well as other stakeholders to ensure that “indigenous peoples receive a fair share of tourism benefits without imposing additional costs on visitors.” The NCIP also asked people to respect the rights of the indigenous peoples and to remain calm and patient as they come up with solutions “that promote harmony and equity for all involved.
”Read the full statement below. RELATED GALLERY: Prince Carlos goes on an adventure in Mt. Pinatubo As of this writing, the post has already received more than 900 reactions and has been shared more than 700 times.
The comments section, meanwhile, has been asking the NCIP to do more, with the top comment as of this writing insisting that a “fair share” of the earnings is not enough.On the other hand, the original TikTok that started the discussion is already at more than 200,000 likes and has been viewed more than 4 million times. @kylajulianWe were all set for an epic adventure to Mt.
Pinatubo today. Woke up early, packed our bags, hyped ourselves up for the trek and made our way to the jump-off point. Everything was going well until we reached the crossing.
That's when we were told we couldn't pass. The Aeta community had put up a barricade and no one was allowed through. We waited, hoping things would change.
But after hours of uncertainty, we had no choice but to turn back. Still, we respect the locals and their decisions. This land is their home first before it's anyone's adventure spot.
Just wish we had better communication or heads-up beforehand. For now, it's a “see you next time, Pinatubo.” We'll be back.
.. hopefully with better luck and clearer paths ahead 🙏♬ original sound - kylA This recent incident with the Aeta community is just the latest incident happening in the country's tourist destinations.
Back in March last year, the public was outraged by a video showing the Captain's Peak Resort, which was built in between two of the Chocolate Hills. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources would eventually issue a statement that revealed the establishment was already issued a Temporary Closure Order in September of 2023 as well as a Notice of Violation in January of 2024.Watch the original video below:.
