Through the years since its formal creation in 2003, the MIPCPD has faithfully adhered to its vision and mission in advancing the rights of indigenous peoples in Mindanao. Despite major obstacles, its growth is unstoppable. The persistence of its prime movers in advocating IP rights eventually produced offshoot institutions that cater to specific needs of the IP communities in Mindanao. For instance, self-governance issues that serve as the driving force for numerous efforts on securing representation of IPs in various government units and line agencies gradually built up the courage of IP leaders to engage in the electoral process through its own Party List Group, the Abante Tribung Makabansa (ATM). Constant dialogues and consultations pertaining to the IPs’ rights to ancestral domains revealed the real predicament of IP communities in dealing with investors exploiting the resources within areas covered by their Certificate of Ancestral Domain Titles/Certificate of Ancestral Domain Claims (CADT/CADC) thereby establishing the need for a consultancy firm that will protect the interests of IP communities; thus the creation of Ancestral Domain Management Systems, Incorporated (ADMSI). The rights to cultural integrity cover a wide spectrum of the entire fabric of the indigenous peoples’ cultural heritage. The fact that it has been deteriorating for a long time now rightfully causes an alarm that compels them to seek help in preserving indigenous knowledge systems and practices. For this, the Epanaw Cultural Foundation rises up to the challenge.
