PAMANA Partylist is poised to wake up Philippine politics! With its clear vision and mission in advocating for the rights of the marginalized sectors – the Indigenous People, the upland farmers and the fisherfolk, PAMANA is generating a buzz both domestically and internationally.From bustling city streets to remote rural communities,supporters from diverse backgrounds are uniting behind PAMANA’s unique platform.
Its vision and mission is carried by their 1st nominee & founder, Mr. Senen A. Jerez, who emphasized his deep desire to serve the community. He is a community development worker and advocate for sustainable development and inclusive growth for the last 30 years directly engaging with these marginalized sectors. He shared, “I had experienced firsthand the negative consequences of the lack or even absence of government intervention in these sectors, which has resulted in marginalization and abject poverty, and displacement of their cultural heritage and forced adjustments to their traditional ways of life. With our vision and mission, I am confident we can bring back what is due right and just for these marginalized sectors, and bring back the true cultural heritage of the Philippines.”
His statement is strongly supported by the partylist co-nominees, expressing their advocacies and commitment to the realization of its vision and mission.
Mr. Don Oliver O. Jerez, the 2nd nominee of the partylist, a graduate of BSBA Major in Business Management & Leadership Awardee of Gerry Roxas Leadership Award and President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Leadership Award, strongly advocates to implement the welfare and programs of the partylist as stated in its vision and mission. He expressed his thoughts in his native language, quote. “Bilang kinatawan ng partylist, isinusulong ko ang layunin ng PAMANA Partylist na maipatupad ang pagpapanatili at pagkakasama ng paglago at pag-unlad ng kultural ng pagkakakilanlan ng mga komunidad ng mga tribo, mga magsasaka sa kabundukan at mga maliliit na mangigisda. Palalakasin ko ang mga layunin nito upang maibigay ang matuwid na adbokasiya sa mga mamayang higit na nangangailangan ng pagtulong ng pamahalaan. Isasakatuparan kong maibigay ang mga layuning pag-unald sa pamamagitan ng mga programang binalangkas ayon sa pangangailangan ng ating mga tribal communities, upland farmers, fisherfolks at maging sa mga mamamayan ng ating bansa.”
He emphasized the platforms of the partylist bearing its PAMANA:
P – Preservation of cultural heritage and practices
A – Access to quality education
M – Medical and social aid services
A – Assistance to livelihood programs
N – Natural disaster & resilience emergency response
A – Awareness to land rights & self-governance
With its great vision and commitment to the future of the Philippines that articulates the guiding principles of the partylist, Mr. Leoncio P. Moneda Jr. the 3rd nominee who has an Industrial Engineering background and worked as an OFW for over 25 years stated,”as one of the nominees, I firmly believe that a united and resilient nation, grounded by the values, vision and mission of PAMANA partylist, stands as the cornerstone of our collective strength. By prioritizing enhanced food security, sustainable resource management, and the empowerment of rural communities, we can drive equitable economic growth that benefits the Filipino people. This vision we carry for our country ensures that every individual, regardless of the background will foster long-term stability and a sustainable path forward for generations to come.”
Arnulfo O. Leal, the Secretary General and 4th Nominee who hailed from a humble family of farmers, descendants of ancestors who did not own any land, expressed, “as such one of descendants, I am determined to implement the existing laws, such as the Indigenous People’s Rights Act (IPRA), that will protect and benefit these marginalized sectors. It is high time that we bring back to them what is rightfully theirs, restoring the land, resources, and rights that have been denied for generations. This commitment is not only about correcting past wrongs, but about ensuring a future where these communities are empowered, their cultural heritage is respected, and their rightful place in our nation is fully recognized.'”
PAMANA Partylist has garnered support from Filipinos across the globe,united by a shared vision for a better future.
Deanna Nohay, a supporter from Dubai, emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage and its connection to economic prosperity: “For me,cultural heritage is one of the most important aspects of being a Filipino.It’s where our origins lie,where the roots of each tribe are found, and within each tribe, there are different economic activities,like farming,which I’ve been familiar with since I was a child.It’s crucial to revitalize agriculture because it can provide abundant harvests and address the rice shortage in our country.”
Aimee Tenorio from Batangas City, Philippines expressed the importance of preserving the Philippine culture and heritage for today’s and future generations. “I strongly believe that PAMANA Partylist is the only one with sustainable programs for our tribal communities, upland farmers, and fisherfolk”.
Tzi Yen Long, a passionate supporter from Hong Kong highlights the party’s commitment to inclusivity and representing marginalized communities.”I love and support PAMANA Partylist because it has a sincere and righteous purpose that benefits us all, especially our farmers,fishermen,and indigenous people who are often overlooked by our government.That is why i truly support PAMANA Partylist.”
Sarah June Ramos, a supporter from the USA, emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation and the power of collective action.”Our cultural heritage is a blend of indigenous traditions and the cultures of tribes,farmers,small fishermen, and others throughout the country. The legacy of the past is a blessing to the present and will give life to the future.”
Junel Biares, a volunteer from Abu Dhabi said,”The PAMANA Partylist is dedicated to restoring the ancient customs that honor our great Creator. These customs rooted in unity and truth will help us reclaim our true identity. I wholeheartedly support the PAMANA Partylist and its mission to restore our ancestral customs and build a brighter future for all.”
Bert Melon, another volunteer from Qatar, stressed out that, “It is not enough for us to simply know about our cultural heritage. We must be proud of it, share it with others, and actively participate in the programs and projects that aim to preserve and revive it. Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that our cultural heritage remains alive and historic for generations to come.”
PAMANA Partylist is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino people, a spirit rooted in cultural heritage, commitment to social justice,and a belief in the power of collective action. From the bustling streets of Manila to the remote villages of the countryside, from the bustling cities of Hong Kong and Dubai to the Filipino communities of the United States, a wave of support is building for PAMANA’s vision.
By reclaiming its ancestral traditions, empowering marginalized communities, and advocating for a more equitable society, PAMANA Partylist is not just building a brighter future for the Philippines; it is weaving a tapestry of hope that will inspire generations to come.
As it stands stronger, united by shared heritage and a common desire for a better tomorrow, PAMANA Partylist works to build a Philippines where every voice is heard, every tradition is honored, and every Filipino has the opportunity to thrive.
