Pride and struggle: Indigenous youth safeguard ancestral domain in General Nakar, Quezon

20 November 2025

Many people are challenged by advancing advocacy, especially for Indigenous communities who struggle to secure land rights to their territory. So, the question remains: how can customary laws and land rights be strengthened?

The non-profit UGBON is working with communities in Quezon province of the Philippines to plant trees, run community events and work with local governance to boost youth’s involvement in community-led environmental action.

Since April 2025, UGBON has been caring for and conserving native trees in communities in Quezon. Indigenous youth have taken the lead in maintaining the nurseries under the traditional guidance of their elders.

“Native trees can also be considered a strong part of our identity as Indigenous People, since our culture is deeply connected to nature,” said Sonny Calara, Jr., the president of UGBON.

“That’s why the emergence of meaningful activities (like planting) is truly valuable, as it reflects how we continue to honor the remaining symbols that prove our culture and traditions are still alive, through the preservation and nurturing of our sacred mountains.”

Indigenous youth monitor the nurseries at Dinigman community daily. Photo: Sonny Calara, Jr.

Planting seedlings to replace those that didn’t survive

Climate change indeed poses a challenge, even to native trees in familiar soil. Perhaps due to the intense heat of the summer, some trees we planted did not survive. Some leaves dried up and turned yellow, but with proper care, reports from the three communities indicate that less than 10 percent of trees were affected.

It was decided to replace the lost seedlings and make greater efforts to ensure the new ones thrive, especially with the rainy season expected to begin around mid-August.

Tatay Wennie, one of the elders in the Maksa community, is showing which native trees are being affected by the intense heat. Photo: Kristel Quierrez

Indigenous youth participate in community gatherings

Through the UGBON project, the stance of Indigenous youth on the protection of ancestral lands has become more visible. They have become more involved in the decision-making processes of their communities.

On 4 August, UGBON was among the active participants in the celebration of the Tulaog Festival – a celebration of the sacredness of the Tulaog Cave, a yearly reminder that all things in nature are sacred, as the great creator Makidepet resides in all things.

UGBON has been involved in many other celebrations, activities and movements to ensure Indigenous youth can participate in community ongoings.

Working with the local government

Due to its passionate commitment and active participation in protecting the forests, UGBON decided to once again apply for accreditation as a legally recognized youth organization under the Local Youth Development Council. This was not accomplished during the previous administration of the Philippines due to complex issues related to the defense of ancestral lands.

Currently, the necessary data and documents are being prepared so that the application can be submitted as soon as possible.