The Joint DENR–NCIP Memorandum Circular No. 2003-01 establishes the state’s commitment to protect both the environment and the ancestral lands of Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs), recognizing their customary laws, knowledge systems, and preferential rights to natural resources within their domains. Its main objectives include clarifying the responsibilities of DENR and NCIP, strengthening harmonization efforts, and supporting related initiatives of government, IPs, local governments, and civil society. The memorandum provides mechanisms for institutionalization and joint review of contentious policies, particularly regarding resource management within ancestral lands. It emphasizes Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC), involves IPs in monitoring bodies, and encourages their participation in the enforcement of ENR laws. To strengthen implementation, the circular directs DENR to build its capability through IP Desks and orientation programs, and to provide technical assistance in delineating ancestral domains with NCIP. The text consists of 11 Articles.
Филиппины · 2003-10-31