Several indigenous communities in the Philippines are advancing efforts on environmental governance and biodiversity conservation through a project supported by Goodchoices Foundation in partnership with local and international organizations. These groups represent diverse indigenous tribes across the country who are working together to protect their ancestral domains and natural resources.

During recent project assessments, indigenous representatives reaffirmed their commitment to partnership with Goodchoices Foundation. Communities highlighted improvements in transparency, financial management capacity, and resource mobilization for indigenous peoples’ organizations (IPOs). They also noted stronger environmental protection efforts through the recruitment, training, and deployment of local forest guards within project sites.

The project has further strengthened women’s participation in community activities, and IPOs are now being formally recognized and consulted by their local government units. This has helped ensure that indigenous peoples gain representation in local policy-making bodies and legislative councils, in line with the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA).

As a result of these milestones, IPOs have gained a stronger voice in governance, with indigenous mandatory representatives now actively participating at both municipal and barangay levels. This model has inspired other localities to adopt similar mechanisms of representation.

Looking ahead, Goodchoices Foundation and partner IPOs are preparing for forest restoration projects in disaster-affected areas, as well as broader initiatives to strengthen partnerships through upcoming forums and dialogues.

Through these efforts, Goodchoices Foundation remains committed to empowering indigenous communities, enabling them to assert their rights to self-governance, protect their environment, and sustainably manage natural resources within their ancestral lands.