Empowering Indigenous Youth Through Education: The Role of TIPSFI in Countering CPP-NPA Recruitment in Talaingod, Davao del Norte

This study examines the effectiveness of the TATAG IP Students Foundation Incorporated (TIPSFI), a community-based initiative established by the 56th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army to counter CPP-NPA recruitment of Indigenous youth in Talaingod, Davao del Norte. For years, the absence of public education enabled left-leaning groups to establish Salugpungan Schools, which became recruitment hubs for insurgents. Launched in 2022, TIPSFI supports former Salugpungan students through scholarships, livelihood assistance, and leadership programs, aiming to develop productive, pro-government citizens. Using a descriptive-correlational design, the study involved 127 purposively selected respondents: 28 TIPSFI scholars and 99 tribal datus. Data were gathered through a validated bilingual questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and non-parametric tests in SPSS. Findings reveal that TIPSFI was highly effective in protecting youth from recruitment and strengthening ideological resilience, with an overall average weighted mean (AWM) of 4.30, rated “Very High.” Its most notable impacts were in preventing CPP-NPA recruitment and radicalization while expanding access to formal education. Challenges encountered by scholars were minimal (overall AWM = 1.53), though limited access to digital learning tools was noted. Statistical results showed significant correlations between perceived effectiveness and respondents’ role and educational attainment, with tribal leaders and direct beneficiaries giving higher ratings. Age also influenced perceptions of challenge seriousness, with younger and older scholars reporting greater difficulties. Overall, the study affirms that TIPSFI provides an inclusive model for countering insurgency through education, cultural integration, and community engagement, offering insights for sustaining peace in conflict-affected areas.