Tribal Peoples Rights Act.

The Tribal Peoples Rights Act, also known as MMA 231, is a legislative measure passed by the Regional Assembly of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) aimed at recognizing, respecting, protecting, and promoting the rights of indigenous cultural communities (ICCs), indigenous peoples (IPs), and tribal peoples (TPs) within the region. The Act applies to various tribes, including the Teduray, Lambangian, and Dulangan Manobo. The Act emphasizes the importance of self governance and self determination for these communities, acknowledging their inherent rights to maintain their cultural practices, traditions, and governance systems. It mandates the Regional Government to establish mechanisms that support these rights while considering the customs and values of the ICCs/IPs/TPs. Key provisions include the recognition of indigenous systems of leadership, the establishment of Tribal Halls for community use, and the primacy of customary laws in conflict resolution. The Act also outlines the relationship between traditional leaders and barangay officials, promoting collaboration to address community concerns.