𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐍𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝟏𝟏𝐭𝐡 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐏𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞, 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞 | Official Website of Municipality of San Nicolas Pangasinan

The spirit of unity and cultural pride filled the air as San Nicolas celebrated its 11th Indigenous Peoples Thanksgiving Day, coinciding with the IP Month Celebration and the 28th Anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA).

Held at the heart of the municipality, the event gathered leaders, educators, advocates, and community members in a vibrant tribute to the rich heritage of Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

With the theme “Weaving Culture, Enriching Future: Empowering Indigenous Communities as Bedrock of Sustainable Development,” the celebration highlighted the importance of preserving traditions while promoting inclusive growth.

The day began with a Thanksgiving Ritual and Parade, followed by a program led by emcees Ms. Karen Lorenzo and Ms. Jovie Jane Segundo, both teachers from Malico National High School.

Municipal IPMR Felixfrey Lorenzo welcomed guests, followed by solidarity messages from Vice Mayor Maricon Operaña and NCIP Regional Director Atty. Atanacio Addog. The keynote address was delivered by Atty. Valentin G. Baguidudol Jr. of the Public Attorney’s Office in Tayug, who emphasized the legal empowerment of IP communities.

Messages of support came from Rebecca Saldivar, representing Gov. Ramon Guico III, as well as officials from DepEd, National Power Corporation, PNP, and various NGOs including FDC Renewables.

Mayor Alicia Primicias-Enriquez delivered a heartfelt message that echoed the town’s enduring commitment to inclusive development. The mayor expressed deep gratitude for the contributions of IP communities to the town’s identity and progress, assuring them that their voices will continue to shape the future of San Nicolas.

IPMR Marissa Dumulag of Kabayabasan, San Felipe East, delivered the IP Community Response, expressing gratitude and hope for continued collaboration.

The program featured cultural dances from the Kalanguya, Ibaloi, and Iwak ethnic groups, the Umingan Tribal Council, and Sta. Maria NHS IP learners, showcasing the beauty and diversity of indigenous traditions. A solidarity dance joined by guests and IP representatives, accompanied by tadek and tribal gong music, symbolized unity across sectors.

The event concluded with photo opportunities and a traditional watwat lunch, bringing everyone together in celebration and fellowship.

IP Thanksgiving Day stands as a living proof to the strength of culture, the power of community, and the promise of a future woven with respect, dignity, and sustainable progress.