Philippine Normal University North Luzon (PNUNL) carried out an important research initiative in Dinapigue, Isabela, focusing on the indigenous political structure of the Agta Indigenous Cultural Community/Indigenous Peoples (ICC/IPs). Led by PNUNL researchers, the study involved direct engagement with community leaders to document their governance systems, social organization, and traditional practices.

The initiative is anchored on Republic Act No. 8371 – the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, reinforcing PNUNL’s mandate to advance research, education, and advocacy for Indigenous communities. This study is part of ongoing collaborative efforts with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to strengthen local governance, cultural preservation, and community development initiatives among Indigenous groups in the region.

Through this research, PNUNL aims to contribute evidence-based insights that can inform policymaking, curriculum development, and extension programs, while also supporting the Agta community in preserving their unique cultural heritage. The activity reflects PNUNL’s broader vision of becoming a Center for Indigenous Peoples Hub, serving as a regional resource for research, advocacy, and inclusive development initiatives for Indigenous communities.

By documenting and analyzing the political and social structures of the Agta community, PNUNL continues to uphold its mission of empowering Indigenous Peoples, amplifying their voices, and fostering sustainable, culturally sensitive development in Isabela and beyond.