Internet personality Deo Balbuena, a.k.a ‘Diwata, was receiving criticism on social media after his recent actions during his visit to Benguet.
According to the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Diwata mocked the Indigenous People (IP) when he wore the traditional Igorot attire while doing weird actions.
In the said video published by Diwata on social media, the internet personality could be seen doing indian shouts and gestures which were far from the true depiction of the said (IP).
Diwata also called the attire ‘costume,’ which was labeled as NCIP as culturally irresponsible.
“The incident highlights the persistent challenges in the Information and Education Campaigns (IECs) aimed at decolonizing the mindset of the Filipino population towards ICCs/IPs. These campaigns strive to dismantle and exorcise the stereotypes and misconceptions that are deeply entrenched in the Filipino psyche,” the NCIP-Cordillera statement read.
“The commission is urging all stakeholders, particularly the owners of rental stalls and other business establishments frequented by tourists, especially those operated by ICCs/IPs, to be more responsible. “We urge them to educate and subtly remind their patrons about the appropriate use of ICCs/IPs’ cultural materials and expressions,” they added.
As of writing, Diwata has yet to give any response to the statement published by NCIP.
Diwata was running as the fourth nominee of Vendor’s party-list.