An Obo Manobo, Eric Raz, who is currently the acting Technical Services Management Chief of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region XII, has assisted in the conduct of information, education, and communication campaigns on MAFI’s programs, and has served as a member of the foundation’s scholarship selection committee.
After graduation, he worked at NCIP’s provincial Office for Southern Cultural Communities (NCIP-OSCC) in North Cotabato, and was able to foster better institutional linkages between NCIP and MAFI. “I coordinated programs and projects, including on scholarship, in indigenous communities, considering that MAFI and NCIP-OSCC have been strategic partners,” Eric recalled.
To augment his limited resources, Eric availed of MAFI’s financial support in the past so he could finish his law school at University of Mindanao.
“Personally, I believe that MAFI’s mission of helping needy but exemplary students to pursue their dream through education is very relevant. Lumad youth should be educated so they can become better individuals, improve their social and economic status, and uplift their lives. For indigent Lumad students, the best way is to assist them through a scholarship program,” he expressed.
“On my part, MAFI had a crucial role in helping me finish my studies and surmount stumbling blocks in law school. As a way of paying back, I now serve my fellow Lumads through my present work at NCIP. I take part in development efforts, protection of our ancestral domain areas, and conflict resolutions, consistent with our customary laws and practices,” he emphasized.
“Many of MAFI’s scholars have graduated, now have stable jobs, and sure enough, better situation than before. Through MAFI’s intervention programs, they have gained more self-confidence, enabling them to effectively adapt to the challenges of modern times. Credit should be given to the foundation for empowering its scholars through education. In a way, its multi-pronged programs complement the implementation of the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act which recognizes and promotes the rights of Lumads,” he said.
Datu Eric M. Raz
Partner/NCIP XII
