As a part of the partnership-building initiative with Indigenous People (IPs) of Aurora, a community visit was conducted on February 5, 2016 at Barangay Cozo, Casiguran and Barangay Simbahan, Dinalungan. This is in preparation for the establishment of the Center for Indigenous People Studies at Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), Casiguran Campus.
A consultative meeting was held in each barangay gathering representatives from ASCOT, headed by it President Dr. Doracie B. Zoleta-Nantes, the IPs Chieftain and barangay officials. Dr. Zoleta-Nantes presented the College’s plan in assisting IP communities in the province. It was agreed that there will be a follow-up consultation to further conceptualize collaborative programs and projects for the IPs.
Upon visitation, goods from friends in Lucban, Quezon was given to 239 IP families in the two barangays. The donations were given by Mr. Peth Brillon, Ms. Balot Zoleta, Ms. Samantha Louise de Jesus, Mr. and Mrs. Arman and Lourdes Quevada, Mr. Handring Caraballo, Ms. Hanna Yao, Ms. Claire Ann Maguyon-Yao, Ms.Cristina Antonette Slavanera-Mia, and Mr. and Mrs. Henry and Sylvia Yao. The cash donations from Ms. Felicita Abcejo and Mr. and Mrs. Duval and Marietta Villaverde were used to buy packed food items.