#NOTOKALIWADAM: THE CHURCH IN SOLIDARITY WITH THE DUMAGAT-

Abstract

This study aimed at analyzing and reflecting on the factors that led to the opposition of the Dumagat-Remontados in the construction of the Kaliwa dam and the Church’s solidarity efforts with the indigenous peoples. Using the SeeJudge/Discern-Act methodology, the authors looked at the struggles of the indigenous peoples (IPs) which is the locus of the Church’s expression of solidarity. Moreover, this study discerned the indigenous peoples’ environmental and ancestral commitment in the light of the Catholic Social Teaching principles of integral and sustainable human development, common good, and a preferential option for the poor. In support of the resistance of the IPs, the Philippine Church expressed their solidarity through their pastoral letters and exhortations condemning the construction of the Kaliwa dam and proposing some alternatives that will not displace the DumagatRemontados. The Church has supported and will continue to demand that the mountains are for the flora and fauna and the indigenous peoples whose lives depend on them.