Vlogger called out for ‘mocking’ IPs

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) has called out vlogger Deo Jarito Balbuena, known as “Diwata,” over a video that supposedly disrespected indigenous peoples.

The NCIP-Cordillera said that in the vlog, recorded at the Strawberry Farm in La Trinidad, Benguet, Diwata was wearing the traditional attire of indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples (ICCs/IPs) while allegedly making demeaning or “mocking” gestures.

“Diwata sparked outrage when he referred to ICCs/IPs’ native attire as a costume. In effect, he relegated the attire, which is part of IPs’ customs and identity, as a mere accessory, or worse, trinkets,” the NCIP said.

Netizens, especially IPs and residents of the Cordilleras who identify themselves as Igorots – a collective term for people living in the mountains – are furious with how Diwata allegedly disrespected them.

While acknowledging that Diwata has no intention to demean or degrade the people of the Cordilleras, the NCIP said it is important to see that his actions reflected a broader societal issue.

“The incident highlighted persistent challenges in information and education campaign intended to decolonize Filipinos toward ICCs/IPs. The campaign strives to dismantle and exorcise the stereotypes and misconceptions that are deeply embedded in the Filipino psyche,” the NCIP-Cordillera said.

The indigenous peoples body urged all stakeholders, particularly owners of stores and other business establishments frequented by tourists to be more responsible in using IP cultural materials and expressions.

“We urge business owners and operators to educate and police their patrons in the most subtle way possible about the appropriate use of ICCs/IPs cultural materials and expressions,” it said.