Cruz and Europa vs. NCIP, G.R. No. 135385. December 6, 2000
Facts: Isagani Cruz and Cesar Europa filed a suit for prohibition and mandamus, challenging the constitutionality of certain provisions of Republic Act No. 8371 (IPRA) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations . Respondents, including the Chairperson and Commissioners of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) , defended the constitutionality of IPRA and sought the dismissal of the petition. The Solicitor General partly supported the petition, arguing that IPRA grants ownership over natural resources to indigenous peoples, which could be unconstitutional. Intervenors, including Sen. Juan Flavier , members of indigenous groups, and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) , supported IPRA, stating that it protects indigenous peoples' rights and is consistent with the Constitution. Petitioners challenged several IPRA provisions, claiming they unlawfully deprived the State of ownership over public lands and resources , violated the regalian doctrine , and infringed on...