More Filipinos belonging to the Indigenous People (IPs) sector are undernourished, anemic, and iodine-deficient compared to non-IPs, according to the Department of Science and Technology - Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI). This was mentioned in the policy statement “A Glimpse to the Health and Nutrition of IPs”, which was based on the 2013 National Nutrition Survey (NNS) of the agency. The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) stated that in 2010, the country has around 14 to 17 million IPs belonging to 110 ethnolinguistic groups, making the country well-known for its abundant and diverse culture. However, the UNDP also added that despite belonging to a vibrant culture, IPs remain the poorest and most disadvantaged people in the country. With high rates of unemployment, underemployment, and illiteracy in terms of mainstream education, their socio-economic status, health, and overall well-being are at a disadvantage. In this regard, the 2013 NNS reported that indigenous women are suffering from reproductive-related problems due to poor health conditions in their communities. The IPs also have a much higher mortality rate among children under five years old. The findings also revealed that the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as hypertension, high blood cholesterol, and high fasting blood sugar, is lower in IPs than in non-IPs, while IPs are more likely to be smokers and drinkers than non-IPs. Further, the survey explained that poor nutrition and health conditions among IPs may be associated with their prolonged exposure to poor environmental conditions, insufficient financial resources, and lack of education and awareness that limit their access to the minimum health and nutrition services. In response, the government passed Republic Act (R.A.) 8371, or “The Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997”, which recognizes, protects, and promotes the rights and well-being of the IPs. The Act emphasizes the IPs' rights to improve their economic and social conditions, including housing, sanitation, education, social security, and health. DOST-FNRI believes that as part of R.A. No. 8371, health and nutrition programs and services should be available, accessible, and affordable, especially to children and women, while also considering their culture. Furthermore, the Institute recommends that program planners and policymakers collaborate with IP communities to develop specific policies, programs, and interventions relevant to their health and nutrition needs, as well as implement health and nutrition programs and services without any discrimination. "Likewise, local government units (LGUs) must also provide an accessible map of the IPs community in the barangay or sitio, which will serve as a guide in providing health, nutrition, and other socio-economic services to the IPs," DOST-FNRI said. "The LGUs, in partnership with concerned government agencies and NGOs, should include IPs in the allocation of funds and encourage their involvement in other community events and programs," the agency added.