Some achievements deserve to be celebrated more than once.
The Local Government Unit of Lidlidda proudly received recognition from the Department of Health β Ilocos Center for Health Development for the successful establishment and operationalization of the Municipal Inter-Agency Committee for Indigenous Peoplesβ Health (MIAC-IPH).
The recognition was received by Municipal Mayor Atty. Sherwin P. Tomas together with Hon. Olga Jane Bagbaguen-Lais, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR), affirming the municipalityβs commitment to championing the health, welfare, rights, and empowerment of Indigenous Peoples through inclusive and responsive governance.
What makes this recognition truly remarkable is its historic significance.
Lidlidda is among only four pioneering local government units in the Philippines that have successfully established and operationalized a Municipal Inter-Agency Committee on Indigenous Peoplesβ Health. More importantly, Lidlidda is the second municipality in the entire country to institutionalize the MIAC-IPH, making our municipality one of the foremost trailblazers in advancing Indigenous Peoplesβ Health Governance nationwide.
This achievement represents more than compliance with government programs. It is a bold declaration that Indigenous Peoples matter, their voices deserve to be heard, and their health and well-being must remain a priority in local governance.
Through the MIAC-IPH, Lidlidda has taken a meaningful step toward ensuring that Indigenous communities have greater access to quality healthcare, social protection, and culturally appropriate services while strengthening their participation in decisions that directly affect their lives and future.
As one of the country’s pioneers, Lidlidda is helping shape a model of governance where inclusivity, equity, and respect for Indigenous culture are transformed into concrete actions and lasting programs.
Today, we celebrate not only an award, but a historic legacy that will inspire future generations and serve as a benchmark for local governments across the nation.
Naalibtak Lidlidda!
A proud achievement for our people, our Indigenous communities, and the future of public health governance in the Philippines.