Binay promotes Ibanag heritage

Proud of his indigenous heritage, Vice President Jejomar Binay yesterday expressed support for the plan to put up a heritage museum to preserve the Ibanag culture.

In a statement, Binay lauded the establishment of the Ibanag Heritage Foundation and the Ibanag Heritage Museum to promote the indigenous way of life.

“Finally we have an organization that aims to promote the culture of the Ibanag. With the organization in place, we can make sure the rights and welfare of the Ibanag people will always be protected,” he said.

Binay has Ibanag roots as his mother, Lourdes Cabauatan, was an Ibanag from Cabagan, Isabela.

The vice president, who chairs the foundation, pointed out the importance of preserving the Ibanag’s cultural practices and traditions, which the foundation will address.

“More importantly, members of the foundation will help in the recommendation of activities that will aid in the preservation of Ibanag cultural practices,” Binay said.

The Ibanag is a Philippine ethnic minority concentrated in the provin-ces of Cagayan, Nueva Vizcaya and Isabela.

They originated near the Cagayan River and are closely related to other ethnic groups like the Agta, Atta, Yogad, Isneg and Malaweg.