Mangaoang is new indigenous peoples Lower House chair

QUEZON CITY – Rep. Allen Jesse C. Mangaoang of Kalinga and Legislative Caretaker of Mountain Province has been elected chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Indigenous Cultural Communities and Indigenous Peoples replacing Rep. Nancy A. Catamco of North Cotabato.

Mangaoang was elected by majority members of the Lower House on Sept. 24.

The 25-member committee, which he now chairs, has jurisdiction over all matters directly and principally relating to indigenous cultural communities and indigenous peoples and the development of their communities.

In an interview, Mangaoang said he is very grateful to the leadership of the House and his fellow members for the trust and confidence given him to lead the said committee.

“With this new role, we are challenged to work and do more in favor of our constituents especially our fellow indigenous peoples,” he said. 

He added together with the members of the committee, he will continue focusing on legislative measures and issues that affect IPs and ICs throughout the country.

Mangaoang traces his roots from Sagada, Mountain Province and Balbalan, Kalinga.

A geologist by profession, he became vice mayor and mayor of Balbalan and Vice Governor of the Province of Kalinga before his election as congressman in 2016.

He was appointed legislative caretaker of Mountain Province on July 5, 2018 when Rep. Maximo B. Dalog died.

Other Cordillerans who are also members of the committee in the current Congress are: Representatives Eleanor Bulut-Begtang of Apayao and Teddy Brawner Baguilat, Jr. of Ifugao. -- Erlindo Agwilang Jr.