The 20th Davao City Council welcomed on Tuesday the newly installed Indigenous People’s Mandatory Representative (IPMR).
Datu Pagdatua Demetrio B. Bolo Sr. of the Bagobo-Klata tribe replaced Rodolfo Mande of the Matigsalug tribe, whose three-year term has expired.
Bolo took his Oath of Office before the National Commission on the Indigenous Peoples on March 21, 2025.
Bolo told reporters he intends to pass ordinances focused on improving the lives of the Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
“Akong una buhaton kay makigmeeting sa mga lideres sa mga tribo aning Davao, pangutan-on unsa kinahanglan gyud nila (The first thing I will do is meet with the leaders of the tribes in Davao and ask them what they really need),” Bolo said.
He noted that as an IP member himself, he had seen the lack of funds for tribal instruments and clothing needed during IP celebrations. He aims to address these concerns.
Bolo also plans to continue the programs of former IPMR Mande, particularly the scholarship for IPs.
The Iskolar ng Tribu Program ( Ordinance 0999-22 Series of 2022) and the IP Shelter (Ordinance No. 0429-24 Series of 2024) are just a few of the many programs institutionalized through ordinances that Mande authored.
Mande expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve Dabawenyos as the IPMR. He likewise, expressed hope that Bolo will continue his commitment to the IPs of Davao City. CIO
