Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act (Philippines)

The Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act (IPRA) of the Philippines, enacted in 1997, recognizes and protects the rights of Indigenous cultural communities and Indigenous Peoples (IPs). It affirms their rights to their ancestral lands and domains, cultural heritage, self-governance, and free, prior, and informed consent for projects affecting their territories. The law aims to preserve Indigenous identities and empower IPs to participate in development processes, ensuring their culture, traditions, and resources are respected and protected within the broader Philippine society.