Members of Akbayan Partylist led by Third Nominee Dadah Kiram Ismula today opened the first day of the campaign period with a fluvial parade of iconic vintas off the city’s coast.

According to Ismula, she wanted to show pride for her heritage as a member of the indigenous people’s and Moro communities and emphasize Akbayan’s inclusive message for the campaign.

“Bilang kasapi ng Moro community specifically ng Sama-Banguingui gusto ko ipagmalaki ang aming kultura at identidad. Parang vinta, abante tayong susugod para sa progresibong pagbabago kahit kontra sa agos at hangin ng panahon,” according to Ismula.

“We have been marginalized for the longest time, pero sa Akbayan ramdam ang pagmamahal sa ating IP and Moro communities sa pagsulong ng aming karapatan. Sabay nating Akbayan ang ating IP at Moro,” she emphasized.

The fluvial parade was also joined by leaders of the city and region’s indigenous peoples, such as the Sama Badjao, Subanon, Yakan, and Kolibugan. Akbayan’s opening salvo kicked off Tuesday morning with multiple sorties and events across Manila, Zamboanga, Bacolod, Cebu, Angeles, Cavite, and other cities in the country.