The Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) to the City Council of Davao, on Tuesday said that he will summon Davao City-based vlogger “Tor Bagtik” and demand an explanation for his discriminating remarks against the Indigenous People (IP) Ata Manobo.
In a now-deleted video posted on his Facebook page, the vlogger described the IP Ata Manobo tribe as “looy na lood” (pitiful and disgusting).
Councilor Rodolfo Mande said in an interview that the vlogger violated the Indigenous People’s rights.
Following the backlash he received from the netizens, “Tor Bagtik” issued a public apology, however, Mande said it is easy to make a public apology but he should know that there are consequences for his alleged harassment of the IP Ata Manobo elders.
Meanwhile, the United Moro and Indigenous People Movement (UMIP) condemned the recent remarks made by the vlogger saying such language is not only offensive but also deeply discriminatory, reflecting a lack of respect for the diverse cultures and identities that make up Davao City.
“Davao City has always been a city of inclusivity, fairness, and love—values that our indigenous and Moro communities uphold and contribute to. Any form of discrimination, especially against our Indigenous elders, is an insult to the harmonious coexistence we have built over generations,” the group said in a statement.
The group underscored that while it acknowledge the public apology and accept it in the spirit of reconciliation, this incident should serve as a strong reminder that creating social media content should never come at the expense of another person’s dignity.
The group reminded that gaining popularity through the degradation of others is an inhumane act that has no place in a city that prides itself on respect and unity.
“As an ethnolinguistic city, under the leadership of Honorable Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, Davao continues to showcase the richness of our cultures on a global stage. We call on all Davaoefios to uphold the values of respect and cultural sensitivity in both online and offline spaces. Let us be responsible citizens who promote understanding and appreciation for the diverse communities that make Davao City truly exceptional,” the group said.
The group emphasized that it stands firm in its advocacy for the protection and empowerment of the Indigenous and Moro communities.
“May this be a lesson for everyone to use their platforms responsibly and with integrity,” the group said.
It can be recalled that in 2012, Davao City enacted the anti-discrimination ordinance prohibits discrimination based on a person’s gender, religion, sexual orientation, and more.
The marginalized groups in the city are protected under the said ordinance.
