Mon Confiado on meeting Mamanwa children: ‘We’re one race’

Mon Confiado took to social media to spread awareness and appreciation for Mamanwa children in Surigao del Norte.

On Facebook, Monday, the veteran actor shared a photo of him smiling from ear to ear with five members of the Mamanwa tribe whom he met in the province.

In the caption, he wrote “The Mamanwa Children” and a quote: “It doesn’t matter what language you speak, beliefs or religion or what color your skin is.”

“We’re one race. Filipino!” he added in the caption with hearts and the Philippine flag.

According to Mon, the Mamanwa tribe, also called the Mamanwa Negritos, is “one of the oldest and still existing tribes in the Philippines.”

They are also “believed to be descendants of the original settlers” of the country.

As of writing, the post has garnered 12,000 reactions, 3,300 shares and 161 comments from netizens who are praising Mon for using his platform well.

“At the back of your being villain roles in films, is a man of substance, down to earth, filled with tenderness and compassion to fellows,” one wrote.

“Salute! May you continue to use your influence for the better,” said another.

According to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Mamanwa is classified as a Negrito subgroup and their population in Surigao del Norte is about 489.