Eleven Indigenous Peoples Representatives Officially Sworn into Zamboanga City Government

On July 31, 2025, Zamboanga City held an official oath-taking ceremony to induct eleven newly certified Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives (IPMRs) from various local villages. The event, presided over by Mayor Khymer Olaso at City Hall, signified the city’s formal recognition of these representatives following the guidelines of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Administrative Order 01, Series of 2021.

Mayor Olaso emphasized that the certification process involved close coordination with the Indigenous Political Structures (IPS) within Zamboanga City’s identified villages, culminating in validation by the NCIP-Zamboanga City Office. He highlighted the significance of this step, stating, "Their certification affirms their eligibility to represent their communities in local legislative bodies and other development platforms."

The newly inducted IPMRs and their respective villages include Anibal Qurais (Talon-Talon), Sattolnina Abba (Rio Hondo), Mutalib Hamis (Labuan), Jubail Buhaini (Taluksangay), Farida Pandeng (Lamisahan), Halima Hamja (Manalipa), Jul Husin (Dita), Peter Mandag (Ayala), Sahdia Akbar (Calabasa), Alih Daud (Tigtabon), and Ruel Diam (Tugbungan).

Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to inclusive governance, Mayor Olaso pledged support for increased indigenous involvement in policymaking and community development. The ceremony was also attended by Councilor Aida Paniorotan, the Indigenous Peoples representative in the City Council, Executive Assistant Abdulwakil Caoile Kasim, and officials from the NCIP.