BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental, Philippines – A total of 134 Badjaos was sent back to their hometown in Mindanao Provinces on Saturday, 5 December.
Prior to sending them home, the local government of Dumaguete sheltered the Badjaos who temporarily resided in various parts of the province.
Of the 134 Badjaos, 96 are from Sagay City, and 34 from Victorias City.
They will all be sent back to their hometown in Mindanao Provinces via 2GO vessel in Zamboanga City.
Major Niňo J. Tornalejo, executive officer of the 11th Infantry (Lapu-Lapu) Battalion said the initiative shows despite cultural differences, the government still gives sentiment and respect to traditions and way of living, not only to Badjaos, but to all tribes in the country.
The activity was spearheaded by Engr. Joseph Paul Nogra, the Operation Officer of the Office of the Civil Defense 6, together with Dr. Zeapard Gerhart V. Caelin, the Incident Commander of Provincial Inter-Agency Task Force and head of Negros Occidental Provincial Disaster Management Program Division.
The personnel of the 11th Infantry (Lapu-Lapu) Battalion and the Alpha (HUNTERS) Company provided security and assistance in facilitating the moving team and the Badjaos during their arrival at Dumaguete City Port, Negros Oriental.
