Untung hu Bugta (The Life of The Land)

Why Dimas Pundato as OIC for ARMM?

2011-09-23T16:38:00.000-11:00

Why Dimas Pundato as OIC for ARMM?

The fruit of democracy that we have now is a product of self-less dedication of freedom-loving people who have dedicated their lives to fight against the evil of Martial Law, human rights violation, and corruption.

The public should know that the Ninoy and Cory Aquino and Dimas and Naima Pundato were pillars of peace and democracy. They have united to fight for freedom and the ills of governance during Martial Law. Before the homecoming of Ninoy, the MNLF-RG, headed by Dimas Pundato met with Ninoy Aguino in Malaysia where Dimas Pundato presented MNLF-RG’s commitment to support Ninoy in the struggle of re-instituting democracy in the country. The enemy of democracy may have succeeded in assassinating Ninoy, but not the spirit of freedom and the love of democracy that has put the hearts of the Filipino in flame, thus the EDSA Revolution in 1986. When Pres. Cory assumed the Presidency, peace negotiation with MNLF started and eventually made way of asking Dimas Pundato, through Sen. Pimentel and then Ambassador Emmanuel Pelaez, who are both Mindanawon, to negotiate with Dimas Pundato to help the newly instituted democratic government. Without any condition, and with the support of the DND Sec FVR and USec Ermita, Pundato came back to Philippines with renewed hope to help alleviate the lives of the Moro people and bring peace especially in Mindanao.

In the last nine years under the previous administration, our country has somewhat lived in uncertainty, due to issues on corruption, bribery, election fraud and illegal dealings, all remnants of a pseudo-martial law, the prevalence untold violence and was capped by the infamous massacre in ARMM. With issues of corruption, cheating and warlordism, it has not only hurt our economy but the people’s sensibilities as well. Thus the people were awakened and we have won anew. Now, with PNoy in the reign and with the vision of establishing back good governance in the government, Dimas Pundato can serve as a historical connect of what PNoy's parents have hardly fought for, that is to re-establish democracy in our country.

Though coming from different faith, the Aquinos and the Pundatos share the same love for freedom and democracy. It is the same aspiration that the people of ARMM are still aspiring for. Thus, the people of ARMM deserves no less, but a man who is faithful and true in his undertakings, no taint of controversy and ill-giving in public service, one who understands by heart the divide of ARMM and Mindanao, and a honest intention to provide better life for his people. Dimas Pundato's simplicity in his lifestyle, his strong solidarity with the people, and his desire to selflessly serve the Filipino people, is a quality of leader that should be given to ARMM.

PNoy has just to consider the man, who is one of his kind. One who has the heart to work towards Matuwid na Daan unconditionally. As a Christian, we are taught that "There is no greater love than to give one's life for a friend". And I believe, it is the same spirit that Ninoy and Cory dedicated their lives for the democracy of our country which we now experience. It is the legacy of PNoy’s parents to us democracy-loving Filipinos and it is in such spirit that the Filipino people have manifested in putting a trusted leader back into the highest position of the land through PNoy. And I hope that it will be on the same spirit, that PNoy has to consider Dimas.

Knowing Dimas Pundato, I am humbled to hear from the man himself, his struggles in the field, the battles he had overcome, the sacrifices he had done, leaving his family behind, to pursue a greater call, which is to fight for freedom in pursuit for his love for democracy.

I am confident enough, that this prodding of the some Mindanaons- Christians, Moslems and the Lumads alike, to nominate Dimas Pundato to lead the transitional ARMM government even just for 21- months, will pave better governance structure to drive development in the most marginalized region in Mindanao.

We are asking PNoy, just for 21-months, consider Dimas Pundato and give ARMM the chance to have the leader they are worthy of.

Reborn

2011-08-17T06:37:00.003-11:00

From deep slumber, I have awaken.
I was lost but have found my way.
Ive been here before and this is my home.
I shall settle back here.
To find the peace I long for.

I am reborn.
And today starts another lifetime.

National Insecurity

2008-02-13T22:59:00.004-11:00

Here is a news posted ay YAHOONews. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080214/ap_on_re_as/philippines_assassination_plot

I am particularly hooked on the last paragraph and I believe that is really the reason behind this news. A simple propaganda doing mind-conditioning not only locally but even in the global arena. Playing it as if GMA is going to be the next Benazir Bhutto, or the East Timor President who were both recently attacked by assassins. And that gives GMA a wider and larger political value.

GMA's strategist-magicians are in the game again. It has been always like this. Whenever there is an incoming mobilization or rallies, the administration never failed to counter it by throwing whatever propaganda they could think and painting a blame to militants and terrorists. It is the same old tunes they are playing. And they are very effective on that. Call it a noble way to preserve national security. So can we conclude that the kidnapping of Lozada last week was part of the game and done all in the name of assuring national security?

Actually, a Martial Law has been already implemented without them even declaring it and worst, some of us not even minding it. Because GMA's administration knew for a fact that it is only without declaring Martial Law that GMA will survive until 2010. They already learned from the past. Why declare it when they can implement it anyway subtly.

In the headlines today, the LGU leaders publicly shown their statement of support for GMA. As early as last night, high alert was imposed and strict checkpoints were established along entry points going inside the Greater Manila Area.

Why are they so paranoid? Are they really thinking that the idea of throwing her out is a possibility?

Or maybe they are afraid because they knew that probably there were truth in the irregularities that Lozada has been testifying against some government personalities and even implicating the First Gentleman. Now they are on the panic mood because they know that the truth can move mountains.

If thats what they are really thinking, then they should also prepare a private chopper aprked in Malacanang which would bring the First Family to Clark then take a chartered plane going to Hawaii and enjoy the beautiful white beaches without the inconvenience of the protesting masses!

However, as I see it, the palace should not be afraid on these mass mobilizations. They should be confident enough that those who calls for GMA's resignation or ouster will not be successful. They should get rid of those paranoia which often leads them to overkill counter-measures which makes them more unpopular to the people.

Anyway, the Filipino people dont care much this days. We are already numb, apathetic and getting dumber as ever. We've staged several people power already and in a way it has lost popularity nowadays. Why join rallies when we can simply sit back and wait until the time when we get our VISA so we can immediately go abroad and live away from this national mess.

Nevermind about the Church's call for GMA's resignation. Anyway, there are no charismatic personalities anymore like Cardinal Sin who can command or influence people and draw a strong crowd.

Nevermind the text power of the youth. For sure they will be very busy texting their sweet and juicy Valentine greetings to their friends and love ones today. They will be out of credit few moments from now and they wouldnt want to spare a peso for another worthless text brigade. In fact most of them are still high on their lovapalooza moments last night.

Nevermind the leftist groups, most of the people dont trust them anyway. Having a left-led revolution is very unpopular now and seen to have a very little chance of success.

Ow! how about the right-ists? Its not a thing to worry. Anyway, the adminsitration has the assured loyalty of the generals, as they should always be. Most of their retired seniors are now even very busy in their given government positions. AndTrillanes? He has been also given a seat but in Bilibid though due to a stubborn and miscalculated action in the past. And he will be staying there until the 2010 elections.

And the Civil Society? They are not anymore a united number to pose a strong force. Actually, they have been acting civilly among each other these days as they campaign each block's agenda independently.

And the Media? Don't worry because they are busy spending their energies in their respective channel wars. They are preoccupied outdoing each other to prove in Court about some anomalies in the rating scheme. How can we trust the bearer and protector of truth when they themselves are in squabble in trying to outdo each other's untruth? They have no enough airtime anymore to cover those mass movements and mobilizations. As long as they are busy protecting and declaring their pride as members of their respective mother station, they wouldn't find a time to uncover the truth when they are preoccupied of covering one.

Ow! You are asking about the Opposition? Thanks for reminding as I have already sent them to oblivion. You know, most of them are already busy preparing for the 2010 elections and the wannabies are still negotiating themselves in to be the standard bearer. Actually they are still confused as to what standard they are to bear. Will it be Erap's or JDV's or Lacson's or Villar's or Roxas'. See! They are in confusion as to how they should position to achieve more political gains.

So see, there is nothing to worry about. Relax. Take a deep breath. All things are in place, everything is under control. Why worry? A strong republic doesn't need a paranoid leadership.

And if by time and through divine providence I'm proven wrong in all of these and in the coming days being labeled as an amatuer political animal with misplaced and inaccurate judgement, then, I would humbly bow down and take the shame. Then after a moment, sporting a malicious grin and with great pride I would say: "Tssk..tssk...I was wrong! Thanks be to God!"

Visiting the Sumilao Camp

2008-01-11T19:35:00.000-11:00

Visiting the Sumilao Camp
By Mark C. Brazil

Yesterday afternoon, I happened to meet a friend who is closely working with the Sumilao Campaign. After short exchanges, I decided to join them and visit the Sumilao Farmer's Camp just outside the DAR Region X Office here in CDO. They have camped in the vicinity for almost two weeks now, still hoping that the Malcanang promise will be implemented real soon.

It was my first time to meet the young marchers after they came back here in Mindanao. I have known some of their elder leaders during previous gatherings and mobilizations in Bukidnon but meeting the young people, mostly children of the Sumilao farmer-leaders, moved me with a sense of curiosity and awed me with the same conviction that is in their eyes. Indeed, the conviction of freeing their people from the battle that lingered them for years is now strengthened and purified after they joined the 1,700-km walk for justice.

Hearing their stories during the walk has in a way conscientized me as they shared their struggles along the way and how much they bear the pains and sores of everyday walking for 60 days. Many times they said that they thought of quitting and surrender to the mental and physical challenge, yet the vision of reclaiming their land and the commitment to the community that they left behind in San Vicente, Sumilao motivated them to be strong and continue marching. I can feel the weariness that they shared as they took Day 1 with at least 5O kilometers stretch from their hometown to Puerto in Cagayan de Oro and the challenge they faced trekking the muddy and unpaved road of Samar which they referred as the hardest part during the walk.

As they shared, one thing struck me when one of them said:

"Abi namo kami na ang pinakalisod nga tawo pero mas nakita namo nga naay uban nga mas naglisod didto dapit sa Visayas. Mga balay nga hinimo gikan sa lukay ang atop ug bong-bong ug ang ilawon pita. Abi namo pobre na gyud kaayo mi pero naa pa diay lain. Nalipay mi nga bisan sa ilang kalisod, sila nakahatag gihapon ug usa ka baso nga bugas alang namo. Sa among pagpadayon sa martsa, amo silang giaapil sa among tinguha. Nga ang among martsa dili lang alang kanamo sa Sumilao kundi sa tanang kabos nga mag-uuma sa tibouk nasud".

Having heard that, I am proud to have met them and listened to their stories. I can see in them the wisdom of their elders strongly inculcated in their youth. The walk have transformed them and earned them the learning that no Masters or PhD Degree can surpass. Such was a feat that bonded them stronger and united them in their call: Reclaim the 144 hectares, nothing much, nothing less.

As we circle around inside the makeshift tent, seated in matted plywood flooring just above the drainage canal, the rain that pours heavily outside worried them. The heavy rain in the past days had caused the drainage to overflow, submerging the tent's floor with floodwater leaving them standing in a corner and sleepless overnight. Such was a mess and a hassle but it has not tried them much. They have been through much more than that during the march. Thanks to Mother Nature for cooperating with us this time.

The noise caused by the raindrops that hits the tarpaulin roof was drowned as the guitar strums with a very familiar tune and my friends readily chorused,

"Lalaya din ang lupa, mga magsasaka. Tutulungan sila ng mga manggagawa. Babawiin ang lupang ninakaw ng iilan. At ang bunga ng lupa'y, bayan na ang aani"

As I sang with them, I felt the unity, faith and passion that gives them the reason and the hope to stand firmly to what their elders and the present generation of Higao-on farmers have been fighting for.

While we enjoyed sharing stories with the company of new found friendship, we were disturbed by the clashing noise of the pan, signaling that dinner is served in few moments.

The banquet is prepared and we heartily shared the ginisang corn beef and fried dried tilapia matched with a pot-full of white rice. The sharing of stories continued while we dined together until the heavy rain left only drizzles which reminded me that its time for me to go.

I bid them goodbye but with an assurance of visiting them again soon. As I walked out from the tent, I am a newer me, now fuelled with extra load of passion inspired by nine of my newfound young friends.

Now with a louder voice, I call:

President Arroyo, Issue the Cease and Desist Order!

DAR, Issue the Notice of Coverage for the 144 hectares in Sumilao!

Mabuhay ang Sumilao Farmers!

Padayon sa pakigbisog!

Note: Pictures inset were from previous mobilization in San Vicente, Sumilao,Bukidnon.

Update on Sumilao Farmers

2007-12-14T15:58:00.000-11:00

Here is another update from Balaod Mindanao. Please help us spread the information so the public may know.

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Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

13/14 December 2007

Today (Dec. 14), the farmers had a 'sit down rally", again in protest of the one sided order of Pangandaman issued last Dec. 12. The farmers, joined by the other peoples organizations like UPAL, SAMBA, UNORKA, and other peasant groups sit in the entrance and exit gates of the DAR.

This morning, the police, army and security guards attempted to disperse the farmers. Rep. Risa Hontiveros helped in negotiating with the police not to disperse the farmers. Fortunately, they were not dispersed.

At around 12:00pm, a mass was celebrated for the farmers who are sitting at the exit gate. Another mass was celebrated at around 2:00 pm at the entrance gate.

13 December

"Respondent SMFI is hereby directed to refrain from further undertaking development activities other than those presently ongoing."

The quotation above is the content of the order of Secretary Pangandaman issued on December 12 as regards the petition of the Sumilao farmers for the cancellation/revocation of the conversion order over the 144 hectares.

Said order was received by the farmers at around 12:30 pm yesterday, while a press conference of priests in the encampment of the farmers was ongoing. The priests in said press conference expressed to support and join the farmers' march on Monday (Dec. 17) to Malacanang for a dialogue with Pres. Arroyo.

Upon receiving the order, the farmers felt disgusted and insulted. Instead of being gratified, the order only raised more anger and frustration from the farmers.

As worded, the "order" does not command SMFI to cease and desist from undertaking any development in the subject property, because it clearly allows SMFI to continue its ongoing development in the area.

At around 2pm, the farmers together with their lawyers called for a press briefing to explain that the order of Pangandaman is not a cease and desist order.

The farmers condemned the order. Mr. Rene Penas, one of the Sumilao farmers, even burned the document. Mr. Penas, as with the other farmers, feel that the order was one sided and favors SMFI. Further, their anger was further aggravated with the provision of the order commanding them to "respect SMFI's ownernship and possession of the property."

In continuing their indignation against said order, the farmers made a "noise barrage" for more than 20 minutes. After the noise barrage, they chanted their call for the issuance of a genuine cease and desist order, which was subsequently followed by a community prayer and lighting of candles.

At around 7:30 pm, Rock Ed Philippines offered the Sumilao farmers a mini-concert. Among the performers are Tribu, Noel Cabangon, Rico Blanco, Village Idiot, and Vin Dancel. The farmers also sang a song by Buklod, "Buhay at Bukid" together with Pilipinas Palma of BALAOD Mindanaw and their lawyer (Atty. Bag-ao).

It was not until 10pm that they felt their hunger. But while they were eating their dinner, songs of support and sympathy from the artists continued to echo in the night.

POSITION PAPER OF SUMILAO FARMERS

ARGUMENTS

Preliminary Issues

The Instant Case Is Different From The Supreme Court Case Of Fortich Vs. Corona

The instant Petition involves a new case with a totally different cause of action from the first Office of the President (OP) case with No. 96-C-6424, issued by then Executive Secretary Ruben Torres, granting NQSRMDC's application for the conversion order . The first OP case pertains to the approval of the conversion order of the subject land which was affirmed by the Supreme Court in the case of Fortich vs. Corona.

It is important to clarify that the instant case does not seek to assail the abovementioned Decision of the Office of the President. Rather, this Petition is a separate though related remedy provided under the law; revocation of the conversion order because NQSRMDC and/or SMFI failed and continues to fail compliance with the conditions in the conversion order, both those NQSRMDC itself has enumerated in its approved application and those legal provisions and administrative issuances necessarily attached to said conversion order.

That matter being clarified, petitioners hereby assert that the Supreme Court case Fortich vs. Corona does not serve as an obstacle to the determination of this petition, as opposed to the assertion of the respondent SMFI based on the following reasons:

1. The petition for revocation is not barred by res judicata because the Fortich vs. Corona decision was not an adjudication on the merits;

2. There is no identity between the causes of action in the said case and in the instant Petition for Cancellation of the Conversion Order;

3. The Petition for Cancellation is not barred by conclusiveness of judgment; and

4. The petitioners have legal standing in the instant case.

The Petition for Cancellation is not

barred by Res Judicata

For res judicata to serve as an absolute bar to a subsequent action, the following requisites must concur: (1) there must be a final judgment or order; (2) the court rendering it must have jurisdiction over the subject matter and the parties; (3) it must be a judgment or order on the merits; and (4) there must be between the two cases identity of parties, subject matter and causes of action . Applying the foregoing requisites to the present petition, it is apparent requisites are absent.

There is no final judgment or order in the instant Petition for Cancellation

As stated above, the instant petition is an original action which seeks the cancellation of the conversion order issued to NQSRMDC and its successor-in-interest SMFI. There is no final judgment on the matter. The petition should not be confused with the Fortich case since the crux of the controversy in the latter case was whether the OP can still modify its own decision which had already attained finality. On the other hand, the instant petition seeks the cancellation of the approved conversion order for non-compliance with its conditions.

The Fortich v. Corona Decision was not an adjudication on the merits

An adjudication on the merits is a decision on a controversy or a determination of the rights and liabilities of the parties in a given case. The Fortich v. Corona decision is not an adjudication on the merits because:

The case did not determine the substantial issues since the Supreme Court ruled that the DAR failed to file its Motion for Reconsideration on time, thereby allowing the Conversion Order issued by then Executive Secretary Torres to lapse into finality;
The petition filed therein was one for certiorari under under Rule 65 of the Revised Rules of Court against then Deputy Executive Secretary Renato C. Corona and DAR Secretary Ernesto D. Garilao and not an appeal or review of the DAR decision/ruling;

The ground invoked was grave abuse of discretion and acts beyond jurisdiction – not errors of judgment, as the Court itself declared;

The certiorari petition assailed the "Win-Win" Resolution only on the ground that it was issued without or in excess of jurisdiction and merely sought the review of then Sec. Corona's disposition, and not that of DAR. The main issue before the Court was whether the final and executory Decision dated 29 March 1996 can still be substantially modified by the "Win-Win" Resolution;

The Court merely stated that Sec. Corona committed grave abuse of discretion and acted beyond his jurisdiction in issuing the "Win-Win" Resolution on the ground that he has no authority to modify a final and executory decision; and

It is conclusive only with respect to the lack of authority of Sec. Corona to modify a final and executory decision .

There is no identity of parties and of causes of action

Moreover, there is no identity of parties. In the Fortich case, the petitioners were Bukidnon Governor Carlos O. Fortich, Sumilao Mayor Rey B. Baula, NQSRMDC and the respondents were Deputy Executive Secretary Renato C. Corona, DAR Secretary Ernesto D. Garilao, while the MAPALAD farmers were the intervenors. In the instant Petition for Cancellation, the petitioners are the farmers, majorioty of whom belong to the Higaonon Tribe, of which 78 are memebers of the MAPALAD-MPC and 99 are members of SALFA in San Vicente, Sumilao, Bukidnon, seeking to cancel the conversion order previously given to NQSRMDC and to enjoin SMFI from proceeding illegally with its hog farm project. There is also no identity in the causes of action in the Fortich case and the instant Petition for reasons already stated above.

--
Balay Alternative Legal Advocates for Development in Mindanaw (BALAOD Mindanaw)
Door 3 Balay Mindanaw SIAD Peace Center
53A 12th St., zone II, Upper Bulua
9000 Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
+63 8822 738794
+63 8822 738794 (telefax)
balaodmindanaw@gmail.com
balaod_mindanaw@yahoo.com

JVP Dinner with the Sumilao Farmers

2007-12-09T18:56:00.000-11:00

I am very grateful that the Jesuit Volunteers Philippines (JVP) National Office has initiated this Dinner with the Sumilao Farmers tonight.

We have shown our support by joining them in their march, spreading the information about their advocacy and now, it is more rightful to be with them in the table, knowing them and listening to their stories and struggle. This is a very worthy way to celebrate the Human Rights Day.

I was in Sumilao last week, the time when Sec. Pangandaman was there having a dialogue with the farmer's family. I saw in them the deep desire of not wanting more than anything but their piece of land, which is the source of their livelihood, the source of their identity, their source of life. The farmers are not not wanting anything else but justice delivered.

The Sumilao farmers have shown me in their Walk for Peace how it is to sacrifice and "die a little more" for a cause. I believe, as Jesuit Volunteers, we share with them when we say "magtaya at magpalaya". They have risked much. Their health, their families, their lives. I have seen the faces of their children, waiting with so much hope that their marching parents will be soon back home to be with them. At their age, they may not have totally understood by now the cause that their parents, relatives and neighbors are struggling for. But it is a cause intended for them. A dream for a future when their land is free from threats coming from the wealthy. A dream of simply living from reaping the fruits of their own land.]

The story of Sumilao Farmers has given me the opportunity to reassess my principles and the values (5s) that I have been trying to live being a former Jesuit Volunteer.

Much have been said. Much have been shown. Much more is yet to come.

May the essence of celebrating the Human Rights Day be with us all.

DAR Sec. Pangandaman visited Sumilao Community

2007-12-03T21:34:00.000-11:00

I just came back from Sumilao just now.

With some other support groups from CDO and other farmer organizations from Bukidnon, we join the families of the marching farmers to face Sec. Pangandaman as he visited the community few hours ago. A dialogue was initiated and an investigation on the proposed Monterey piggery was conducted by the DAR Team. It was the position presented by the Sumilao farmers that there was a violation on the conversion order on the land since five years have already passed and the development plan was not implemented.

During the dialogue, the Secretary emphasized that they are not there to discuss the merits of the case but to check on the violations that were possibly committed by the meat company. He also promised that they will resolve the issue the soonest time possible but he did not give details on how much time needed before the issue is resolved.

Some people, who were said to be farmers and IPs coming from nearby communities also picketed in front of the Monterey gate showing their support to the piggery project. The people, showing their tarpaulin streamers did not intimidate the "trapal" streamers of the Sumilao Farmers as the two groups were separated by the concrete road. Ration of bottled water were given to the Monterey supporters compared to the ration of cooked cassava prepared by the Sumilao farmers.Near noontime, the rain poured prompting the two groups to disperse, both groups equally wet. Some media groups were also present to cover the event.

Two of the community elders flew to Manila this afternoon to join their members and to offer a traditional ritual for the group.

Let us continue showing our support to the Sumilao Farmers.

A Letter of Solidarity to the Sumialo Farmers from the Bishop of Bukidnon

2007-12-02T20:20:00.001-11:00

Here is a Letter of Support from the Bishop of Bukidnon in solidarity with the Sumilao farmers. This letter is supported by 133 religious priests,nuns and brothers during their recent gathering last month.

Here is the letter from the Bishop: ( as forwarded by a contact from Balaod)

Seiptember 20, 2007

Her Excellency

GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO

President

Republic of the Philippines

Malacañang Palace

Your Excellency: Peace!

I am writing to you to highly endorse the petition of the SUMILAO FARMERS (their letter to me enclosed) to reclaim their land covering a total of 144 hectares located in San Vicente, Sumilao, Bukidnon. Here is the summary of their decade-long struggles.

Their struggles to reclaim their ancestral land dated back to year January 1990 when the DAR issued a Notice of Coverage over the 144 hectare of land owned by Norberto Quisumbing Sr. Instead of respecting the Rule of Law, the latter applied for land conversion from agricultural to non-agricultural classification. In 1994, DAR Secretary Ernesto Garilao denied the conversion and finally awarded the land to the SUMILAO FARMERS. But the Quisumbings brought the case to the Office of the President and the ruling was reversed by then Executive Secretary Ruben Torres, validating the conversion of land from agricultural to non-agricultural classification. The Sumilao Farmers brought the case to the Street of Quezon City, went on hunger strike for 28 days until President Ramos came up with a "Win-win Resolution". 100 hectares were awarded to the SUMILAO FARMERS and the 44 hectares to the Quisumbings. But that was not the end of it. The Quisumbings brought the case to the Supreme Court, which resulted to the reinstatement of the Torres Resolution and the invalidation of the Ramos Resolution. The year was 1999. Since then the land remains idle; no structural development as promised by the Quisumbings. Then, in 2002, the Quisumbings sold the land to the San Miguel Foods, Inc. That was a direct violation to the Torres Resolution because the San Miguel Foods, Inc. plans to put up a piggery farm on the 144 hectares ancestral land. Because of this, the SUMILAO FARMERS filed a Petition for the Cancellation of the Conversion Order dated November 3, 2004. Until today there are still waiting for your final decision.

Madam President, your kind attention to this concern is highly appreciated by all concerned. A solution to this problem will surely bring light and abundance not only to the SUMILAO FARMERS' families but also to their children and their children's children.

Here is hoping for the peaceful and fruitful resolution of this almost two (2) decades old struggle of our indigenous sisters and brothers.

In Our Lord,

† HONESTO Ch. PACANA, SJ, DD

Bishop of Malaybalay

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This is one thing to be grateful for. The Sumilao march has indeed gathered support from the different walks of life, from fellow farmers, popular commentators, the academe etc.

i hope your organization can also present a letter of solidarity. If you can, please direct it to:

http://www.sumilaomarch.multiply.com
http://www.pakisama.org

you can also sign the online petition through:

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/sumilaofarmers/

Padayon mga Kauban!

The Sumilao March is already in Manila!

2007-12-02T16:49:00.001-11:00

The Sumilao March is now already in Manila. The march is close to its end but it is actually a beginning to a new future for the Sumilao Farmers.

Sec. Pangandaman of DAR is going to visit Sumilao, Bukidnon tomorrow (Dec 4) to investigate and meet families of the marchers. Hope the visit will turn positive in favor for the farmers.

Let us all join them in their struggle by showing our support in the upcoming activities in the next few days.

To view the some video footages of the march, please follow the link below.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=vXbz4xdjbXA
http://youtube.com/user/pubergado

More other videos are available at youtube. Please forward this video to all of your contacts and friends,so we can spread the Sumilao Struggle.

Mabuhay ang mga Mag-uuma!
Mabuhay ang Sumilao Farmers!

DAILY UPDATES OF “Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice”

2007-11-21T23:04:00.001-11:00

DAILY UPDATES OF “Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice”

Nov. 7-22, 2007

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

22 November 2007

For the past several days, the Sumilao Farmers have to endure the hardship of walking under heavy rains. Because their raincoats are already worn-out and tattered, they did not escape from getting soaked and wet.

Such situation worsened the condition of the marchers who suffer from colds or cough. Also, walking along muddy roads made their pace slower.

Worse, news of a better weather is not to be expected sooner.

Fortunately, there was no rain yesterday when they left the Holy Spirit Parish in Ragay at around 4:00 AM, but still, they were deprived of sunshine. With the better situation, however, their walk yesterday was easier. They were back to their usual 'short talk' while traversing the road to del Gallego, 31.4 kilometers from Ragay.

They talked just about anything. But mostly they remember their fond memories with their families in barangay San Vicente. Sometimes, they just make fun of their situation by cracking jokes – yet, beneath their smiles and laughter is their longing to see and embrace their loved ones.

When their conversation became serious, one by one, the marchers fell silent, and the walk continued without a word being said. It was only when they reached Sta. Rita de Casia Parish in del Gallego that they begin to talk again and "break the ice", so to speak.

They arrived in del Gallego at around 12:30PM, where they were warmly welcomed by the parishioners and some locals from del Gallego.

Shortly upon their arrival, the rain fell.

While waiting for the program to start, they maximized their free time to rest and attend to their personal needs. Some managed to talk and become acquainted with their hosts.

The short program started at exactly 4:00PM. Despite his busy schedule, Hon. Bayani Velez, the mayor of del Gallego, did not miss to visit the Sumilao farmers, and personally delivered his message to them.

The good mayor said that although the people in del Gallego do not personally know the Sumilao farmers, it does not hinder him and his constituents to give their support. According to Mayor Bayani, personal acquaintance with the person who is a victim of injustice is not necessary to entitle him full protection and support.

More than his words, Mayor Bayani provided the Sumilao farmers shelter for the night. It is the least, according to the mayor, that the people of del Gallego can express their solidarity to the Sumilao farmers.

Such gesture was indeed a humble contribution to uplift the morale of the marchers.

Moreover, the Sumilao farmers were treated with good music. The Parish Youth Ministry rendered songs selected for and dedicated to the marchers.

Meanwhile, while the program was on going, 2 lady volunteer medics from Medical Action Group (MAG) and Philippine Red Cross, visited the marchers, checked their blood pressures, and gave medical advice.

While they were preparing for supper, the Sumilao Farmers received a package from Pakisama. To their joy, the package turned out to be new raincoats.

Their support groups include Parish Pastoral Council, Couples for Christ, Philippine Red Cross, PREC, LGU of del Gallego, PAKISAMA and Medical Action Group.

Tomorrow and the day after that, they will continue their walk, rain or shine, until they reach Malacanang.

Call of the Sumilao Farmers:

Reform and Extend the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP)!

It has been 19 years since the enactment of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL), yet, the fruits of agrarian reform remain to be seen, or to put it squarely, now mostly belongs to Cojuangco and his hogs.

The government has reported an accomplishment of a seemingly impressive 6.4 million hectares – or 79.4% of the target CARP scope of 8.1 million hectares from 1972 to 2005. However, the figures were computed in such a way as to falsely depict the true situation of agrarian reform in the country. The "accomplishments" include lands with registered CLOAs but which have not been turned over to tenants. There is double counting where collective CLOAs and the individual CLOAs are both tallied. In the most brazen cases, there are CLOA holders who still do not occupy the lands. In other instances, titles which have been distributed and accounted for as accomplishment are eventually cancelled.

On top of that, the government's original target scope of 10.3 million hectares in 1988 was severely reduced in 1996 to 8.1 million hectares to accommodate large-scale exemptions and massive land conversions. More than 5.3 million hectares of land were exempted outright from CARP in 1996. The reductions in the scope of public land in turn accommodated vast tracts of government land leased or otherwise controlled by big landlords as cattle ranches, export crop plantations and logging concessions.

Taken as a whole, there are more than 10.2 million marginal farmers, tenants and farm workers, 70% of whom are still landless even at the closing stages of CARP.

The recent moves of President Arroyo and our legislators fail to clue us in on the President's stance with respect to CARP and on whether or not Congress may give CARP another extension: CARP has been lumped with other asset reform programs of the government such as urban land and ancestral domain instead of the usual separate chapter in the recent Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP); the target for land acquisition and distribution (LAD) of private agricultural lands has been reduced to only 100,000 hectares per year; and the legal moves by Congress to stop CARP, to wit, exemptions of big prawn farms, fish ponds and aquaculture areas from CARP coverage, foreign investors' leasing of private lands for up to 75 years, and the proposed 25-year moratorium on CARP implementation in the Mindanao region.

This indicates the Arroyo administration's abandonment of the Constitutional mandate on agrarian reform as provided in Section 4, Article XII of the Constitution, to wit:

"The State shall, by law, undertaken an agrarian reform program founded on the right of farmers and regular farmworkers, who are landless, to own directly or collectively the lands they till or in the case of other farmworkers, to receive a just share of the fruits thereof. To this end, the State shall encourage and undertake the just distribution of all agricultural lands, subject to such priorities and reasonable retention limits as the Congress may prescribe, taking into account ecological, developmental, or equity considerations, and subject to the payment of just compensation. In determining retention limits, the State shall respect the right of small landowners. The State shall further provide incentives for voluntary land-sharing."

The struggle of the Sumilao farmers will be brought to naught unless the agrarian reform program will be extended beyond 2008 and a genuine implementation of land acquisition and distribution (LAD) will be had.

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

21 November 2007

20 November 2007 Sumilao Farmers' Walk

At 5:20 AM, the Sumilao Farmers left Tara, Sipocot and started to walk towards Ragay.

From the start of their walk, the marchers immediately faced heavy rains. But, having walked for more than 5 days with the rain pouring hard on their tattered raincoats, they seemed to get used to such situation that they looked not bothered by the hardship that it entails.

After walking 15 kilometers, they stopped at the Sagrada de Familia Parish, Colakling, Camarines Sur, and ate their breakfast. They feasted and shared the simple meal prepared by the parishioners and support group.

While taking a brief rest at the Parish, Danny Buclasan took the opportunity to share to the parishioners the history of their struggle. A short but lively discussion soon followed when the parishioners started to ask questions. The farmers were happy to note that the parishioners attentively listened to the sharing.

From Coakling, the farmers resumed their walk and reached the municipality of Ragay, which is their destination for the day, at around 12:30 PM. There they sought refuge at the Ragay Parish Church.

All in all, they traversed a total of 26 kilometers.

While at the parish church, they took some rest. Others maximized the time attending their personal concerns.

It was a difficult day for them, especially so that their "resident" doctor, Dr. Grace Bag-ao (Dok G) was not around to tend to the marchers who are not feeling well. Dok G has to leave the march because of a broken leg. She was rushed to the hospital in Naga City two days ago after she involuntarily fell on her feet. An operation was strongly advised by the doctor.

Fortunately, Dok G was able to train some marchers to become paramedics. Through them, the task of individually attending to the health of the marchers became easier.

Hence, in the absence of Dok G, the paramedic team somehow managed to assist those who need medical attention.

When the sun set, and before they partook their dinner, the Sumilao Farmers joined the parishioners who offered to pray the rosary for the blessing and guidance of the farmers. It was a solemn moment. Everyone knelt and asked for guidance as they renew their commitment to continue their struggle - until they reach Malacanang.

By nightfall, most of the farmers have fallen asleep early, but the members of the Team Leaders Pool still convened and planned for their next day's journey. They also agreed on the messages they need to emphasize during media interviews or on occasions where they will be invited to speak before the public.

Today, they are negotiating the roads from Ragay to del Gallego. Tomorrow, they will continue walking until they reach Tabugon.

Revisiting the Sumilao Case:

DAR ABANDONED ITS DUTY MANDATED BY LAW WHEN IT DISMISSED THE PETITION

The Office of the DAR Secretary has the jurisdiction and expertise to decide the cancellation of the conversion order. In the words of former Chief Justice Panganiban, "All controversies on the implementation of the CARP fall under the jurisdiction of the DAR, even though they raise questions that are also legal and constitutional in nature. All doubts should be resolved in favor of DAR, since the law granted it special and original authority to hear and adjudicate agrarian matters."

The foregoing statement has for its basis Sec. 17 of Executive Order No. 229 which states that DAR shall exercise "quasi-judicial powers to determine and adjudicate agrarian reform matters, and shall have exclusive jurisdiction over all matters involving implementation of agrarian reform, except those falling under the exclusive original jurisdiction of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Agriculture."

The basis of this quasi-judicial power of DAR is found and has been further clarified by Republic Act No. 6657, thus:

Sec. 50. Quasi-Judicial Powers of the DAR – The DAR is hereby vested with primary jurisdiction to determine and adjudicate agrarian reform matters and shall have exclusive original jurisdiction over all matters involving the implementation of agrarian reform, except those falling under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources xxx. (underscoring supplied)

In the case at bar, since the law provides that the authority to grant conversion orders lies with the DAR, it is only logical that the authority to revoke or cancel such authority also lies with the DAR. To reiterate, at the risk of being redundant, the DAR has shirked away from its duty to determine whether or not the cancellation of the conversion order is proper given the prevailing circumstances and the clear legal provisions relevant hereto.

The function and mandate of the department secretaries is precisely to assist the President in the implementation of laws. This is exemplified under Section 7 (Powers and Functions of the President) of the Administrative Code of 1987 which states that the Secretary shall:

"(1) Advise the president in issuing executive orders, regulations, and other issuances xxx;

(2) Establish the policies and standards for the operation of the Department pursuant to the approved programs of government;

(3) Promulgate rules and regulations necessary to carry out department objectives, policies, functions, plans, programs, and projects; xxx "

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

20 November 2007

Approaching Quezon Province

Yesterday, 19 November 2007, while the Sumilao Farmers were traversing the whole stretch of Balogo, Sapacao to Tara, Sipocot, they encountered challenges and situations that needed their full attention. One of the marchers, Toto Hapayon, and one from the support groups, Dr. Grace Bag-ao, were rushed in the hospital in Naga City.

The marchers observed that Toto Hapayon is alarmingly losing weight, while Dr. Bag- ao, fondly called by the marchers as Dok G, suffered a broken shin. She was advised to undergo an operation. .

Like the previous day, the typhoon affected the pace of the marchers. They negotiated the muddy roads from barangay Sapacao to Sipocot, and at certain times, they had to pass flooded streets.

When they reached the day's destination, FUERZA and Social Action Center (SAC) organized a short program intended to educate the locals in the municipality. To better appreciate their struggle, they showed to the public some video documentaries featuring the Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice Campaign/pilgrimage. Ka Rene Peñas, together with some other Sumilao Farmer leaders, narrated the history of their struggle and why they chose to walk from Bukidnon to Manila.

The program was attended by private and other LGU personnel. An inspirational message was solicited from the support groups.

Meanwhile, Sumilao Farmers' support groups in Manila staged a mobilization in front of the National Office of Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Quezon City Circle. This was participated by various NGOs and POs supporting the cause of the Sumilao Farmers in reclaiming the 144-hectare land in Sumilao, Bukidnon.

They used slippers to symbolize the sufferings of the Sumilao Farmers from Bukidnon to Manila walking on foot. The DAR Secretary, however, did not show up – a clear manifestation of the proof that the top government official who does not care so much about the plight of the Sumilao farmers, and to the rest of the farmers across the country.

Sumilao Update

19 November 2007

Before starting their walk yesterday, the farmers heard a Eucharistic celebration at 5:00 in the morning. It was the first time that they heard a mass before starting their journey. Usually, they hear masses upon their arrival at the place where they shall stay for the night.

It was perhaps a good start for their day's walk because they were able to endure the harsh weather. Thus, despite the outpouring of heavy rain and strong winds, they arrived safely at Balogo, Pasacao, Camarines Sur, their next stop, with high spirits.

Aside from the bad weather, the place was not very safe, because of the alleged presence of members of the New Peoples Army. Even the members of the Philippine National Police were hesitant to accompany the farmers at the time they entered Sta. Rosa. But, the local priest personally ensured that the farmers shall safely arrive in Balogo.

They arrived at Balogo around lunch time. After eating their lunch, they took a short rest, before starting with their scheduled activity for the afternoon.

First, they had a general assembly where they discussed how they could continue their walk despite the unfriendly weather. For instance, they talked about how many kilometers they should walk if the heavy rains will continue.

It was also discussed in the general assembly who among the marchers shall compose the 'pool of speakers' for the week. This is part of the commitment to enhance their skills in articulating their struggle to the public. And in order to deepen their knowledge on the intricacies involved in their struggle, and to share their individual and collective insights of their journey, they regularly conduct learning sessions.

Later in the afternoon, Mr. Ben Longid, Roland Quilanan, Boyet Ambayec, who introduced themselves as representatives of Senator Gringo Honasan, visited the farmers and gave the senator's donation.

Before retiring to sleep, there was a meeting of the team leaders, where they assessed the disposition and feeling of each and every marcher. It came out that all of them are still very much willing to continue, despite physical stress, and emotional pain for missing their family.

Partial Luzon Leg

Camarines Norte

20 November - Sipocot to Ragay - 31 kilometers

21 November - Ragay to del Gallego - 30 kilometers

22 November - del Gallego to Tabogon - 20 kilometers

Quezon Province

23 November - Tabogon to Lopez - 32 kilometers

24 November - Lopez to Gumaca - 20 kilometers

25 November - Gumaca to Atimonan - 33 kilometers

26 November - Atimonan to Lucena - 30 kilometers

27 November - Lucena to Tiaong - 37 kilometers

Laguna

28 November - Tiaong to San Pablo - 15 kilometers

29 November - San Pablo to Los Baños - 21 kilometers

Revisiting the Sumilao Case:

Petitioners are the community residents and qualified agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) who are directly affected by the conversion

The petitioners in this case are landless farmers, farmworkers, and community residents in San Vicente, Sumilao, Bukidnon. Being such, they undoubtedly have a paramount interest on the instant petition as they are the immediate community residents who are directly affected by the conversion of the land. Being such, they undoubtedly have a paramount interest on the instant petition.

Further, the petitioner-farmers being the landless residents of San Vicente, Sumilao, are the qualified farmer beneficiaries under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law:

SEC. 22. Qualified Beneficiaries. – The lands covered by the CARP shall be distributed as much as possible to landless residents of the same barangay, or in the absence thereof, landless residents of the same municipality in the following order of priority:

agricultural lessess and share tenants;

regular farmworkers;

seasonal farmworkers;

other farmworkers;

actual tillers or occupants of public lands;

collective or cooperatives of the above beneficiaries; and

others directly working on the land.

It is also worth mentioning that petitioners Paterno Tuminhay and Renato Peñas are the incumbent Barangay Kagawads of San Vicente, Sumilao, Bukidnon, hence, they have the moral and political obligation to be vigilant on matters affecting their jurisdiction.

On this note, several DAR policy issuances pertinent to protest to conversion of agricultural lands recognize the legal standing of the community residents and landless farmers on the matter:

DAR Administrative Order No. 1, series of 1990

Article VIII. "Protest or opposition against the application for conversion may be applied by any person who may be displaced with the Provincial Agrarian Reform Adjudicator (PARAD) xxx"

DAR Administrative Order No. 12, series of 1994

Article XIV. "The Regional CLUPPI shall evaluate written protest filed by any person who may be displaced or affected by the proposed land use conversion"

DAR Administrative Order No. 1, series of 1999

Article IV. Section 18. Who May File. – Any person who will be displaced or directly affected by the proposed land use conversion such as occupants, tenants, farmworkers, identified beneficiaries, bona fide residents of adjoining properties or communities may file a written protest against the application for conversion xxx Provided, that in case the protestant or oppositor is an identified beneficiary under the agrarian reform program of the land applied for and who failed to file a written protest within the said period due to fraud, accident, mistake or excusable neglect, he shall have the right to intervene at any time during the pendency of the application.

DAR Administrative Order No. 1, series of 2004

Section 16. Protest. Persons affected by the proposed land use conversion, such as identified beneficiaries, farmers, agricultural lessees, share tenants, actual tillers, occupants or residents of adjoining properties or communities, may file a written protest xxx. An oppositor who is an identified Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) of the land applied for conversion, and who failed to file a written protest within the period due to FISTS, may intervene at any time during the pendency of the application

Although the above-cited provisions refer to the legal standing of identified beneficiaries, farmers, agricultural lessees, share tenants, actual tillers, occupants or residents of adjoining properties or communities to protest to applications for conversion of agricultural lands, the same principle applies to petitions for cancellation of approved conversion orders.

The present petition for cancellation of the conversion order is synonymous to a protest by the community residents and landless farmers themselves who were directly affected by the failure of NQSRMDC and its successor-in-interest SMFI to comply with the conditions of the conversion order to the great detriment of the community residents and landless farmers who could have benefited from the land which remained idle and uncultivated for 10 years.

The fact the SMFI plans to illegally transform the whole 144-hectare property into a piggery farm right in the midst of the farmers' residents, in violation of the authorized development plan in the conversion order, raises immediate concern to the petitioners. The active participation of the actual residents and the landless farmers in filing the instant petition, as they are the ones who are directly affected thereby, confirms their legal standing to petition its cancellation.

The petitioners also bring the instant petition under the doctrine of intergenerational responsibility as enunciated in the case of Oposa vs. Factoran. Essentially, the principle means that we hold the natural resource treasures of the earth in trust for the benefit, enjoyment and use of the generations of humankind yet to come. Petitioners herein, as the actual residents and qualified farmer-beneficiaries of the 144-hectare land, represent not only themselves but also future generations who are directly affected by NQSRMDC and SMFI's illegal conversion of the land, and who are the future beneficiaries thereof.

Furthermore, the effect of granting the petition for revocation of the conversion order is the reversion of the land to the status of agricultural lands and shall be subject to CARP coverage as circumstances may warrant. The petitioners and their future generations will be the beneficiaries of the subject land's CARP coverage under Section 22 of RA 6657. The cancellation of the Conversion Order will result in the reversion of the land to agricultural use which is coverable under CARP. In other words, the cancellation of the Conversion Order will redound to the benefit of the Sumilao Farmers and their future generations, otherwise, they will suffer the consequences if the Conversion Order will be upheld

Sumilao Walk

Reflection of Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo on Sumilao Walk

November 16, 2007

This morning my wife, Leni and I, together with hundreds of other symphatizers joined the Sumilao Marchers from the Naga City boundary to Plaza Quince Martires. The segment covered around 6 kilometers — a very short distance compared to the 1100 kilometers or so covered by the group, which started from Sumilao, Bukidnon. (It did not seem short to me. I was too tired to stay on for the rest of the short program.)

Looking back, I must say that the Naga City segment of the march was probably short in distance but long on the lessons and insights that we took away from the experience. I was pleasantly surprised with how the people of the city responded. There is really something different in the Nagueno! He can be counted upon to make a stand and choose what is just and what is right. He will walk the extra mile, literally and figuratively, if called upon.

The marchers included old women, young men and simple folks who are victims of the inequities in our society. While many of us would have given up the fight if we were in the same situation, they have hang on to that slim hope that their grievances would be addressed if they try "hard enough". We hope and pray that their pleas will be heeded. But even if they won't be, I believe they still have succeeded. Many times in the past, we have closed our eyes on the injustices and inequities in our midst. The marchers have reminded us, that the least we could do is to stand up and be counted. Oftentimes, we hesitate because we are afraid to displease people who we might need to count on, at a future time. (This is especially true with politicians!). But if only we can right the wrong now, probably we might not have the need for them in the future as they no longer have the influence over us. The Sumilao March mirrors the general picture of our society today. Poor people continue to suffer. Influential people, fearful of the loss of their pelf and influence, idly sit back and watch where the wind will blow before they cast their lots. Meanwhile, the decision makers wait for these influential people to make their move so they can fittingly respond. This is how I look at the Sumilao problem. This is how problems of inequities come to be.

The Sumilao march is scheduled to end in Malacanang before the second week of December, after covering 1500+ kilometers. I do not know what awaits them. But I am certain of one thing. They have restored my faith in the Filipino human spirit. They may not be as many as I would have wished them to be. But they have sown the seeds — if not in the many places they have marched through, at least they have done so in Naga City.

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

18 November 2007

Naga City Resolution No. 2007-347

16 November 2007

The Sumilao Farmers traversed a total of 20 kilometers from the Municipality of Bula to Naga City. Again the farmers continued walking despite heavy rains. They were all soaked and wet because their rain coats were already tattered. This hardship did not affect the marchers' determination to reach the day's destination.

Donations from community folks are still prevalent. The marchers received supports in money and in kind. Such overwhelming supports were highly appreciated. It certainly lifted the hearts of the farmers.

The Sumilao Farmers were joined by different like-minded groups in the day's walk. They were Lakas ng Kababaihan, Naga City Peoples' Council LGU, SALIGAN, Coalition for Bicol Development, Coca-Cola Workers' Union-Bicol Region, Casureco Fraternity and Kumon.

The highlight of the day was when the Sangguniang Panglungsod of Naga City Unanimously approved Resolution No. 2007-347, Declaring Solidarity and Support to the Quest of Lumad Farmers of Sumilao, Bukidnon to Recover Their Land.

The message of the Resolution was that the Sangguniang Panglungsod of Naga City shares the same sentiments with the Sumilao Farmers and that there should be recognition of their rights over their ancestral land. It was the LGU's reaffirmation of their support to the Sumilao Farmers' struggle to recover the land that is legally and rightfully theirs.

At the end of the day, the farmers rested with a smile on their faces and likewise hope that these supports will soon be translated to a tangible government action distributing the disputed 144-hectare land in Sumilao, Bukdinon to them.

17 November 2007

The following day, the Sumilao Farmers started walking at around 4:35AM negotiating the stretch of Naga City to Sta. Rosa, Pasacao with 30 kilometers.

They had a stop over in the Municipality of San Fernando, Camarines Sur to have a breakfast with the Municipal Mayor Fermin Mabolo. They were welcomed by the good mayor with a simple meal that was prepared as a manifestation of his support to the marchers.

They arrived in St. Rose Ublima, Brgy. Sta. Rosa del Norte, Camarines Sur at around 2:00PM. They were welcomed by the locals with a warm welcome party. The Sumilao Farmers got acquainted with the people who visited them. They got to know Ragay and Limbanan Farmers, Bicol Christian Life Community, LGu of San Fernando, DAR Province, Guardians Republicans, SALIGAN and Caseres Social Action Foundation Inc.

A small program was likewise conducted where it was actively participated by the LGUs of San Fernando. To educate the public, Rene Peñas delivered a short message stressing the history of the Sumilao Farmers' struggle. Rev. Fr. Mike dela Rosa gave an inspiration message. He delved on the struggle of the Sumilao Farmers that as long as they are holding the truth, justice will be served in their favor.

The short program was concluded with a reflection from the farmers that what they are asking is the 144-hectare land that is legally theirs.

Revisiting the Sumilao Case:

Petitioners are the community residents and qualified agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) who are directly affected by the conversion

The petitioners in this case are landless farmers, farmworkers, and community residents in San Vicente, Sumilao, Bukidnon. Being such, they undoubtedly have a paramount interest on the instant petition as they are the immediate community residents who are directly affected by the conversion of the land. Being such, they undoubtedly have a paramount interest on the instant petition.

Further, the petitioner-farmers being the landless residents of San Vicente, Sumilao, are the qualified farmer beneficiaries under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law:

agricultural lessess and share tenants;
regular farmworkers;
seasonal farmworkers;
other farmworkers;
actual tillers or occupants of public lands;
collective or cooperatives of the above beneficiaries; and
others directly working on the land.

On this note, several DAR policy issuances pertinent to protest to conversion of agricultural lands recognize the legal standing of the community residents and landless farmers on the matter:

DAR Administrative Order No. 1, series of 1990

Article VIII. "Protest or opposition against the application for conversion may be applied by any person who may be displaced with the Provincial Agrarian Reform Adjudicator (PARAD) xxx"

DAR Administrative Order No. 12, series of 1994

Article XIV. "The Regional CLUPPI shall evaluate written protest filed by any person who may be displaced or affected by the proposed land use conversion"

DAR Administrative Order No. 1, series of 1999

DAR Administrative Order No. 1, series of 2004

The present petition for cancellation of the conversion order is synonymous to a protest by the community residents and landless farmers themselves who were directly affected by the failure of NQSRMDC and its successor-in-interest SMFI to comply with the conditions of the conversion order to the great detriment of the community residents and landless farmers who could have benefited from the land which remained idle and uncultivated for 10 years.

The fact the SMFI plans to illegally transform the whole 144-hectare property into a piggery farm right in the midst of the farmers' residents, in violation of the authorized development plan in the conversion order, raises immediate concern to the petitioners. The active participation of the actual residents and the landless farmers in filing the instant petition, as they are the ones who are directly affected thereby, confirms their legal standing to petition its cancellation.

The petitioners also bring the instant petition under the doctrine of intergenerational responsibility as enunciated in the case of Oposa vs. Factoran. Essentially, the principle means that we hold the natural resource treasures of the earth in trust for the benefit, enjoyment and use of the generations of humankind yet to come. Petitioners herein, as the actual residents and qualified farmer-beneficiaries of the 144-hectare land, represent not only themselves but also future generations who are directly affected by NQSRMDC and SMFI's illegal conversion of the land, and who are the future beneficiaries thereof.

Furthermore, the effect of granting the petition for revocation of the conversion order is the reversion of the land to the status of agricultural lands and shall be subject to CARP coverage as circumstances may warrant. The petitioners and their future generations will be the beneficiaries of the subject land's CARP coverage under Section 22 of RA 6657. The cancellation of the Conversion Order will result in the reversion of the land to agricultural use which is coverable under CARP. In other words, the cancellation of the Conversion Order will redound to the benefit of the Sumilao Farmers and their future generations, otherwise, they will suffer the consequences if the Conversion Order will be upheld.

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

16 November 2007

PDCI Supports Sumilao Farmers

Though with only a limited night rest, the Sumilao Farmers together with their support groups woke up at around 3:00AM and started to get ready for another walk. They left Ligao City at 4:05AM right after their morning exercise and a cup of coffee. As practiced, they likewise offered a prayer and asked for further guidance from the Lord for their whole day walk.

They stopped for a while in Brgy. Balangibang, Polangui, Albay for their breakfast. They feasted with mongos and tinapa. Then after a few minutes of rest, they hurriedly continued walking.

From the start of the day's walk, the marchers endured the heavy rains. Their raincoats seemed of no use because those raincoats were already tattered. They were all soaked and wet, but it did not affect their endurance and courage to reach Malacanang and their ultimate goal in this struggle – the 144-hectare landholding in Sumilao, Bukidnon.

One of the marchers, Ka Oting, suffered from mild cramps. Because of the situation, the group decided to rest for a while.

Because of heavy rains, the advance party asked the LGU of Nubao if they could provide a space for the marchers as they intend to have early lunch. Without any second thought, said LGU agreed. When the marchers reached the Nubao, they were warmly welcomed by the locals. The marchers felt moved with the hospitality and friendly gestures from the people in Nubao. Some even got acquainted with the marchers.

At Portico, Camarines Sur, a group of farmers from Pecuaria Development Coop., Inc. (PDCI) met, joined and accompanied the marchers going to Lanipga, Bula, Camarines Sur.

Like the Sumilao Farmers, PDCI is a farmer organization with 426 members who were once farmer beneficiaries of 817-hectare landholding in Lanipga, Bula, Camarines Sur. Their Certificate of Land Ownership Awards were distributed way back on 1993 and each beneficiary is now personally tilling and developing their respective 1.7 hectares. Although they were successful, some of their members (37 farmer beneficiaries) encounter problems because some of the lands are already in the hands of a private person.

The members of PDCI expressed solidarity with the Sumilao Farmers that they too will someday also own and possess the 144-hectare land in Sumilao, Bukidnon.

They finally arrived in the venue after walking for approximately 42 kilometers. PDCI prepared a short program where representatives from PAKISAMA, PDCI, DAR and DA gave their touching messages of solidarity. In response and on behalf of the Sumilao Farmers, Ka Rene Peñas, delivered a speech delving on the history of their struggle and concluding his discourse with gratefulness for the support extended.

Revisiting the Sumilao Case:

The farmers were previously granted the ownership of the 144-hectare land by virtue of the Certificate of Land Ownership Awards (CLOA) issued in their names

We should not lose sight of the fact that the petitioners are the former holders of a Certificate of Land Ownership Award No. TCT/CLOA No. 00240227 issued to 137 MAPALAD farmer-beneficiaries in 1995, long before the proceedings before the Supreme Court in the Fortich case. The TCT/CLOA was even registered before the Register of Deeds in the same year.

In fact, by virtue of the "Win-Win Resolution" issued by the Office of the President through Executive Secretary Corona, the farmers were again identified as the qualified farmer-beneficiaries for the 100-hectare portion of the subject land. Applications to Purchase and Farmers' Undertaking (APFUs) were duly executed by the farmers recognizing their existing right to ownership of the land.

The mere fact that the farmers were identified twice as beneficiaries under a valid and existing law, the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (RA 6657) undoubtedly confirms their right to the subject property. Their TCT?CLOA was cancelled precisely as a result of the issuance of the conversion order, which this present petition seeks to cancel. It does not take any legal reasoning to conclude that these petitioners stand to benefit from the resolution of this petition. They have every right to be the beneficiaries of the subject land's CARP coverage under Section 22 of RA 6657.

Based on the foregoing, it is the petitioners who now have the highest interest to petition for the cancellation of the approved conversion order for non-compliance and violations thereof, especially that it is they who have been previously stripped off of their ownership of the 144-hectare land. Herein petitioners were the ones who were most injured by the Supreme Court Decision in Fortich as they were removed from the land already granted to them by the government. Petitioners have undoubtedly have a legal standing to the instant petition as the success thereof necessarily means the CARP coverage of the subject properties and the consequent distribution thereof in their names.

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

15 November 2007

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice:

920 Kilometers in 36 Days

At 4:30 am yesterday , the Sumilao farmers started to walk the distance of 22 kilometers from Daraga, Albay to Ligao City. It was a difficult day for them because it rained during their entire walk. Nevertheless, they managed to arrive in Ligao city at around 11:00 am.

They rested and ate their lunch at St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish, an ancient church built in 1818.

After taking their lunch, they attended to their personal needs. Some decided to sleep, others washed their clothes, massaged their feet, while others talked with the local parishioners

At 5:00 in the afternoon, they heard a regular mass officiated by Fr. Bob Banares and Fr. Ton Pet Ballares. They talked to the farmers after the mass, and generously gave the amount received from the offering to the farmers.

By nighttime, some officers of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and employees of Ligao city, headed by its administrative officer, visited the farmers. BINHI-PAKISAMA, a people's organization in the city, prepared the dinner for the farmers. UNORKA, another peasant group in the city also visited the farmers and gave their support.

Before sleeping, the farmers had a short gathering to discuss the plan for the walk the following day.

Probably due to physical exhaustion, many of the farmers did not sleep well. Some were heard talking on their sleep, while few others sobbed.

To date, the farmers have already covered 920 kilometers, which is more than half the distance of their total journey from barangay San Vicente, Sumilao in Bukidnon to Manila.

Yesterday also marks their 36 ^th day of walk.

On their 36 days of walking, three of the marchers celebrated their wedding anniversaries on the road. Last October 11, the second day of their walk, Roberto Rosente celebrated his 8^th wedding anniversary. On November 8, while they were in Samar, Rene Penas also celebrated his 27^th year wedding anniversary. And yesterday (Nov. 14) marked the 10^th wedding anniversary of Roger Anlicao.

Their families in Sumilao, Bukidnon just lighted a candle to remember such important occasion in their life.

13 November 2007

At around 10 am on November 13, the farmers arrived in Daraga, where they were warmly welcomed by PAKISAMA-Daraga, Mayor Ching Triumpante and Vice Mayor Len Magayanes and other officers and employees of the city government, the Daraga Parishes, and the seminarians of the Diocese of Legazpi and Masbate and Virac-Mater Salutis College Seminary.

They arrived in said city after walking 20 kilometers from the municipality of Pilar. The Cope Foundation helped and guided the farmers in their walk. Upon their arrival, they rested at the Ninoy Aquino gym in Daraga city.

A mass was celebrated to uplift the spiritual spirits of the marchers. Four priests facilitated said mass, namely: Rev. Father Ramoncito Segubiense, Rev. Msgr. Noe 'Weng' Thomas, Rev. Fr. Marlon Bron and Rev. Joseph Salando.

After the mass, they held a program initiated by the local government of Daraga City, where it was actively attended by no less than Mayor Ching Triumpante and Vice-Mayor Len Magayanes.

The program helped to uplift the morale of the Sumilao farmers. The Vice-Mayor stressed that she will always support the struggle of the Sumilao Farmers. They learned that the vice mayor was once a fellow paralegal of PESANTEch (a coalition of law groups composed of SALIGAN, KAISAHAN, and BALAOD-Mindanaw). She was also among the individuals who visited them during their hunger strike 10 years ago.

The culmination of the program was the messages of solidarity from various groups who attended the program – PAKISAMA-Bicol (Binhi-Albay, MAGSAKA-Cam. Sur., FMPC-Iriga City, FUERSA-Pasacao), SAC Legazpi, AMIGA-Daraga, Alcala Farmers' Association, DAR Province, DA, DSWD, LGU-Daraga, DOH, PNP, Matis Salutis College Seminary, Daraga Community College, Cope Foundation and Marriage Encounter Group-Choir.

Revisiting the Sumilao Case:

Sumilao Farmers as Qualified Beneficiaries

Republic Act 6657, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL) is a social legislation enacted primarily to respect, protect, promote and fulfill the basic human rights of the farmers, particularly those who are landless. Two of the salient features of the law are its comprehensive definition of Agrarian Reform and the enumerated qualifications before a farmer could benefit under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

The law defined Agrarian Reform in the Philippine context and not of another. Agrarian Reform, accordingly to the law, is the redistribution of lands, regardless of crops or fruits produced to farmers and regular farmworkers who are landless, irrespective of tenurial arrangement, it includes the totality of factors and support services designed to lift the economic status of the beneficiaries and all other arrangements alternative to the physical distribution lands, such as production or profit sharing, labor administration, and distribution of shares of stock, which will allow beneficiaries to receive a just share of the fruits of the land they work.

The law further says that the land to be distributed should be agricultural land, and the same shall be distributed as much as possible to landless residents of the same barangay, or in the absence thereof, landless residents of the same municipality in the following order of priority: a) agricultural lessees and shared tenants; b) regular farmworkers; c) seasonal farmworkers; d) other farmworkers; e) actual tillers of occupants of public lands; f) collectives or cooperatives of the above beneficiaries; and g) other directly working on the land.

Based on the foregoing, the Sumilao Farmers are without doubt qualified CARP beneficiaries. Though there are no agricultural lessees and shared tenants in the disputed land, the Sumilao Farmers were once regular farmworkers of the Quisumbings. They are likewise actual residents of Brgy. San Vicente, Sumilao, Bukidnon where the landholding is situated. The land is prime agricultural land and they were occupying and personally tilling the land.

Not to mention that the land was owned and originally possessed by the ancestors of the Sumilao Farmers – the Higaonons. Legally and logically, the land should be given to the Sumilao Farmers. But because of the influence, money and capacity of few influential personalities, they were able to circumvent the law and became successful in grabbing the said land.

It is sad to note that up to this date, they are being deprived of the land that is from time immemorial, legally theirs.

The Call of the Sumilao Farmers:

Revoke the Conversion Order which allowed the Land Conversion!

Enraged by the evils that Quisumbing and Cojuangco have committed, the Sumilao Farmers, led by 28 MAPALAD Farmers together with 90 SALFA Landless Farmers, filed a petition for the Cancellation of the Conversion Order before the DAR Secretary on 3 November 2004. The petition is based on the following grounds:

· Non-compliance with the conditions of the conversion order;

· Failure to commence any development work on the property within 1 year from the issuance or the finality of the Conversion Order on August 25, 1999;

· Non-completion of the development plan on the property within 5 years from the issuance or the finality of the Conversion Order on August 25, 1999;

· Failure to submit written request for extension within 6 months before the lapse of the 5 year period;

· Failure to submit quarterly reports on the status of the development to the MARO, PARO and the DAR Regional Office as required by the Rules;

· Non-observance of the conditions for the use of the land as authorized in the Conversion Order by Quisumbing and his successor-in-interest, SMFI; and

· Unauthorized change of use of the land from the development plan as approved in the Conversion Order to a 144-hectare piggery farm without the prior consent from the DAR.

It is worth mentioning that the present petition does not assail the previous Supreme Court decion approving the Conversion Order as it has already gained finality. On the contrary, the Sumilao Farmers contend that the conditions of the Conversion Order are but proper.

Legal Standing of the Sumilao Farmers is beyond doubt

The ancestors of the Sumilao Farmers have been working on the land since time immemorial. Even after they were forcibly evicted by unscrupulous landowners from their very own land, they worked as farm laborers under Quisumbing and later for Del Monte for several years. In fact, the Sumilao Farmers were declared the owners of the 144-hectare land by virtue of the Certificate of Land Ownership Award duly given to them by the government in 1995. If not for the illegal conversion of the land as approved by the Office of the President, the Sumilao Farmers would have remained as absolute owners thereof. Without doubt, the Sumilao Farmers have a real interest in the status of the 144-hectare land.

The previous Supreme Court decision which stated that the MAPALAD Farmers do not have legal standing in the case because they were merely "recommendee farmer beneficiaries" does not affect their legal standing in the present petition as the same was merely an obiter dictum, not the ratio decidendi of the case. Ration decidendi is an analysis of what the court actually decided on and is essentially based on the legal points over which the parties in the case actually contend. All other statements about the law in the text of a court opinion are obiter dicta which are not rules for which the particular case stands.

The Supreme Court decision was purely based on technical grounds, to wit, the failure of the DAR to appeal the case on time. All other pronouncements in the previous Supreme Court decision, including the legal standing of the MAPALAD Farmers, are merely obiter dictum.

Today and Tomorrow

Today, they are currently traversing the stretch of Ligao City to the Municipality of Bula with a distance of 42 kilometers. Tomorrow, another 20 kilometers will be endured by the Sumilao Farmers as they head off to Naga City.

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

13 November 2007

Solar Drier

12 November 2007

Yesterday's Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice was a normal journey for the Sumilao Farmers, except for rainfalls from time to time. The whole stretch of yesterday's walk from Sorsogon City to Brgy. Putiao, Municipality of Pilar covered 37 kilometers. They left Sorsogon City at around 4:00 AM after their morning rituals (stretching, exercise and coffee).

The ranks of the Sumilao Farmers for the whole march was peaceful and in order. Rene Peñas was assigned to lead the marchers.

The by-standers noticed a different hat of the farmers. Eventually it became a long-running joke when they realized that those were the under wears of the marchers. Most of them brought with them a pair of under wear and they usually wash their dirty clothes including undies at nighttime. They do not have any time to hang their clothes that's why some of them put their under wears on their heads while walking. They call this 'solar drier'. They usually do this in their homeland in Sumilao, Bukidnon especially when they have to go farming for days. It is for them a normal practice.

Dr. Grace Bag-ao, the marchers' "resident" doctor is currently worried of their their health. Most of the farmers are suffering from cough and colds because of the weather. Rain or shine, the farmers are continuously walking. To lessen their pains and suffering, they regularly take their vitamins and some other 'over-the-counter' medicines. Aside form that, every night, the farmers are paired and each of them was encouraged to massage their partners.

The farmers are likewise suffering from skin friction (halas/pilas) between their thighs (singit). And this makes their pace slower. Dr. Jeffrey Ramos from Davao Medical School Foundation advised the farmers to apply petroleum jelly to the affected areas. He also suggested to wear tights or cycling shorts. On this regard, the farmers are badly in need of petroleum jelly and since cycling shorts are too expensive, they are requesting panties. (They said panties during these times are more comfortable to wear than briefs.

They spent the night in the Holy Family Parish in Brgy. Putiao, Pilar, Sorsogon.

Sumilao Farmers' Support Groups in Manila

Meanwhile, some support groups of the Sumilao Farmers together with Peter Tuminhay and Quirico Ligmon are currently doing simultaneous initiatives in support of those who are currently walking. Yesterday, they had a meeting with Congressman Bulut and DAR Sec. Nasser Pangandaman regarding CARP Extension. Then they attended the meeting of the House of Representatives Committee on Agrarian Reform.

Right after the two above said meetings, they again met with Cong. Bulut. During the meeting, Quirico Ligmon, one of the Sumilao Farmers, appraised those in attendance of the chronology of events with respect to the Sumilao case and the current petition for cancellation of the conversion order. Cong. Bulut responded as he expressed awareness of the Sumilao Campaign and mentioned how the marchers' plight is deplorable. Ligmon also informed the legislator that the Sumilao Farmers are expected to arrive in Manila on 3 December 2007 and will pass Batasan on 6 December 2007 . On this regard, Ligmon asked Cong. Bulut if the marchers could seek an audience with him. Philippine Legislators Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD) staff informed Cong. Bulut that an invitation will be formally sent to the latter's office for said purpose.

Revisiting the Sumilao Case:

The Instant Case id Different from the Supreme Court Case of Fortich vs. Corona

The instant Petition involves a new case with a totally different cause of action from the first Office of the President (OP) case with No. 96-C-6424, issued by then Executive Secretary Ruben Torres, granting NQSRMDC's application for the conversion order. The first OP case pertains to the approval of the conversion order of the subject land which was affirmed by the Supreme court in the case of Fortich vs. Corona.

It is important to clarify that the instant case does not seek to assail the abovementioned Decision of the Office of the President. Rather, this Petition is a separate though related remedy provided under the law; revocation of the conversion order because NQSRMDC and/or SMFI failed and continues to fail compliance with the conditions in the conversion order, both those NQSRMDC itself has enumerated in its approved application and those legal provisions and administrative issuances necessarily attached to said conversion order.

The petition for revocation is not barred by res judicata because the Fortich vs. Corona decision was not an adjudication on the merits;
There is no identity between the causes of action in the said case and in the instant Petition for Cancellation of the Conversion Order;
The Petition for Cancellation is not barred by conclusiveness of judgment; and
The petitioners have legal standing in the instant case

The Call of the Sumilao Farmers:

Restore the Dignity of the Sumilao Farmers

Notwithstanding their loss in the Supreme Court be mere technicality, the Sumilao Farmers' commitment of regaining their ancestral land was never diminished. In fact, it even strengthened the MAPALAD Farmers towards their advocacy for fenuine agrarian reform.

The Sumilao Farmers established the MAPALAD Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) in order to reinforce their organization. Further, MAPALAD campaigned for the CARP coverage of the adjacent Salvador Carlos Estate which is still part of their ancestral land. Subsequently, a CLOA was issued to the MAPALAD Farmers making them the owners of the land. Salvador Carlos initially opposed the distribution of his land to the farmers and barrage of cases ensued before the courts. The MAPALAD Farmers were criminally prosecuted for Grave Coercion when they attempted to possess their own land. Several farmer leaders were imprisoned in jail.

With divine providence, Salvador Carlos eventually understood the plight of the MAPALAD Farmers and their basic desire to have a piece of land to call their own. In his last will, Salvador Carlos agreed to subject the land for coverage under CARP with the Sumilao Farmers as beneficiaries. They finally regained a portion of their ancestral land. But it was not that easy for the MAPALAD Farmers. Francisco Reyes, the administrator of Salvador Reyes, refused to heed the Voluntary Offer for Sale (VOS) submitted by Salvador Carlos to the farmers. When the MAPALAD Farmers initiated their land occupation of the property, Reyes brought several armed men to harass the farmers. But the latter persisted in successfully occupying the land. The family of Salvador Carlos even joined their thanksgiving mass where they gave the farmers rosaries and a statute of the Virgin Mary. It was a momentous event for the MAPALAD Farmers and the Carlos Family.

The MAPALAD Farmers immediately cultivated the cherished land. The cooperative, with 78 farmer beneficiaries, employed a communal farm development wherein each member was allocated a farm lot ranging from .450 to .900 hectare depending on their participation in the MPC's projects. A portion thereof was allocated for a communal farm support community development projects such as farm technology, gender sensitivity trainings, and paralegal formation activities. Despite the inadequacy of the 66-hectare land for at least 137 growing households, the MAPALAD Farmers proved that they can develop the fullest potential of the land for agricultural productivity and at the same time for the advancement of the whole community.

Not only that, the MAPALAD Farmers also encouraged the formation of another peasant group in San Vicente, Sumilao which led to the establishment of San Vicente Landless Farmers Association (SALFA) composed of 90 farmers, 90% of whom belongs to the Higaonon Tribe. Several members of SALFA are the children of the MAPALAD Farmers and the rest are the other farmers and farmworkers residing in the barangay. The MAPALAD Farmers also would want the SALFA members to carry on their struggle for a genuine agrarian reform and their dream of possessing a precious land that is actually theirs in the first place.

All the SALFA members are landless. Apparently, the 66-hectare Carlos Estate distributed to the MAPALAD Farmers is not enough for more than 400 farmer-residents in Sumilao. There are many farmers who are still landless amid some cherished victories on the Carlos land. They merely depend on a Php50.00 to Php 80.00 labor pay per day during harvest season. Outside the harvest season, they engage in broom making where they are paid Php 1.00 per broom. This meager earning could hardly provide food for their family. Not one of them had completed their schooling. The SALFA members also dreamt of one thing – a land of their own.

The Fellowship of the 144-hectare land in Sumilao

The following were the support groups yesterday:

· SANDIGAN;

· Municipal Government of Pilar, Sorsogon;

· Cope Foundation;

· PAKISAMA

· Social Action Center (SAC) of Sorsogon; and

· Congregation of Security of Our Lady of the Holy Trinity

Today and Tomorrow

The Sumilao Farmers are currently negotiating the roads from Pilar to Daraga with 23 kilometers. Tomorrow, they will proceed to Ligao City and will traverse another 34 kilometers.

Urgent Appeal

The Sumilao Farmers are requesting for petroleum jelly and panties.

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice

12 November 2007

Walk for Sumilao, Walk for the Peasantry

The Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice Campaign carries various issues on the state and implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). It is initiated by the Sumilao Farmers primarily to reclaim the 144-hectare landholding in their hometown. Although they have particular calls such as revocation of the conversion order, they are also calling for the extension and reformation of the CARP, and recognition for a need of a Land Use Law, which, would redound to the benefit of the whole peasantry across the country.

11 November 2007 is the Sumilao Farmers' 2^nd day of walk in the island of Luzon. They first set foot on this island on 9 November in the Municipality of Matnog. Yesterday they traversed the whole stretch from the Municipality of Irosin to Sorsogon City, covering 37 kilometers.

The marchers saw some vast of farms along the way. They saw their fellow farmers tilling and developing their respective lands. Some of these local farmers approached and chatted up the marchers. The local farmers learned that though the issue on repression and infringement of the small farmers' rights are prevalent, somehow, they find that in a way, they are still in a better position and condition compared to the others.

The Sumilao Farmers left the local farmers with an assurance that they will finish and continue to advocate the extension and reformation of CARP.

On their way to Sorsogon City, another group of farmers was staging a rally against the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). These farmers tried to join the ranks of the Sumilao Farmers, but eventually decided to let the Sumilao Farmers have their own campaign and demonstration.

The following farmer organizations joined the Sumilao farmers toward Sorsogon city: PANGOPOD, BAP, LPKI-SCUPFI, CBTG and Coastal Core. These organizations have been waiting for the arrival of the Sumilao Farmers inLuzon for quite some time; They wanted to show their support and solidarity with the marchers.

The rest of the walk went smooth; by-standers and motorists kept on shouting chants and messages of solidarity with the Sumilao Farmers.

For some reason or another, the pace of the marchers was faster compared to the previous days. They arrived in Sorsogon City earlier than expected. They proceeded to Fatima Parish Church of Sorsogon City where Bishop Arturo M. Bastes welcomed them.

Two of The Sumilao Farmers, Yoyong and Toto, maximized the presence of some members of the local media. In an interview with Radyo Natin, they explained the history and reason why they decided to walk from Bukidnon to Manila.

They stayed in the Diocese Pastoral Center of Sorsogon City where the city's Social Action Center (SAC) attended to their personal needs.

Revisiting the Sumilao Case:

Cancellation and/or Revocation of the Conversion Order Issued to Quisumbing is Proper

Despite the lapse of more than five (5) years from the time the conversion order became final and executory (25 August 1999), NQSRMDC and its successor-in-interest, SMFI, failed to initiate or undertake any single development work in the area, in violation of the conditions of the conversion order pursuant to the rules governing conversion.

Be it noted that when NQSRMDC applied for conversion of the land from agricultural to agro-industrial, it included the following project proposals in its development plan otherwise known as the Bukidnon Agro-Industrial Development Association (BAIDA):

Development Academy of Mindanao which constitutes the following: Institute for Continuing Higher Education; Institute for Livelihood Science (Vocational and Technical School); Institute for Agribusiness Research; Museum, Library and Cultural Center which covers an area of 24 hectares;

Bukidnon Agro-Industrial Park which consist of corn processing for corn oil, corn starch, various corn products; rice processing for wine, rice-based snacks, exportable rice; cassava processing for starch, alcohol and food delicacies; processed and prepared food market; cold storage and ice plant; cannery system; commercial stores; public market, and abbatoir needing about 67 hectares;

Forest Development includes open spaces and parks for recreation, horseback riding, memorial and animals (mini zoo) estimated to cover 33 hectares;

Support Facilities include the construction of a hotel (360 rooms), Restaurants, Dormitories and Housing Project covering an area of 20 hectares;

Mindanao Sports Development Center that includes facilities that shall qualify for international competitions such as: track and filed oval, baseball and softball, tennis courts, basketball courts, swimming pools, equestrian court, games of chance – billiard, bowling, etc.; and

Commercial Mall

A careful perusal of the facts would show that applicant NQSRMDC failed to comply with the strict regulations on conversion of agricultural lands. The proposed hog project by SMFI is very different from the approved development plan by the applicant NQSRMDC.

The Fellowship of the 144-hectare Land in Sumilao

The Sumilao Farmers would like to thank Laan Para sa Kinabukasan Inc., ITF, Batit Anay Project, Diocese of Sorsogon thru Sorsogon Social Action Foundation Inc. (SSAFI), and PANGODPOD Inc. for the statement they released extending their support and solidarity with the Sumilao Farmers.

The Sumilao Farmers would also want to thank those farmer organizations who joined them - PANGOPOD, BAP, LPKI-SCUPFI, CBTG and Coastal Core; Bishop Arturo Bastes for his warm welcome when they reached Sorsogon City; and the Social Action Center for providing the Sumilao Farmers a place to stay.

Today and Tomorrow

The Sumilao Farmers are on their way to the Municipality of Putyaw, another 37 kilometers distance from Sorsogon City. Tomorrow, they will leave Putyaw and will head off to Daraga for a 23-kilometer walk.

Walk for Sumilao, Walk for Justice

11 November 2007

Its Bicol Express for the Sumilao Farmers

The struggle of the Sumilao Farmers in claiming their 144-hectare land in Sumilao, Bukidnon has inspired other farmer organizations to continue the struggle of the whole peasantry in the country.

Yesterday, the farmers negotiated a stretch of 27 kilometers from the Municipality of Matnog to Irosin. While on their way to Irosin, several farmer organizations (SANDIGAN, PAKISAMA, HSAI, PINAGSAMA and SAFSCO) waited for the Sumilao Farmers to join their march. It was the first time, after two years, when these organizations come together and organize a collective activity. Having been convened, they felt that they are a great force, and would have louder voice if they are together. Thus, they realized that they should do this kind of collective action more often, especially on issues where they share the same ideals and principles.

During their sharing, the Sumilao farmers and the farmers who joined the march were all in agreement that the strengthening of the support groups is crucial in the success of the struggle. The Sumilao Farmers shared that the 60-day walk from Bukidnon to Manila may be related to a human body. Danny Buclasan, one of the Sumilao Farmers' leaders, said, that the Sumilao Farmers may be regarded as the head of this peaceful action, but they cannot proceed nor succeed without the active participation of the support groups, which may be considered as their body. Indeed, since they share the same advocacy, they need to coordinate and unite.

Now, on their second day of walking in Luzon, the support from the church, civil society organizations, peasant federations, and local governments are overwhelming.

The DAR in the province, like its provincial offices in Mindanao and Visayas, also visited the Sumilao Farmers. The marchers, particularly Yoyong Merida, President of San Vicente Landless Farmers Association (SALFA), was informed by an employee of the department that they have a scholarship program; that this program is one of the support services of the department intended to uplift the status of the small farmers. The marchers responded that they all know of such program. They believe such scholarship program is a form of support to the farmers, but they also stressed that, though they need said program, what they need more is an urgent action from the department to respond to their calls, namely:

Restore the Dignity of the Sumilao Farmers!
Revoke the Conversion Order!
Reclaim the Land!
Reform and Extend the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP)!
Recognize the need for a National Land Use Law!

Meanwhile, the support groups gave their respective messages of support to the Sumilao Farmers. The messages delved on the similarities of their issues and problems; that they admire the perseverance and determination of the Sumilao Farmers; and that all of them support the struggle of the marchers.

Also, the Sumilao Farmers observed that the locals of Matnog to Irosin were knowledgeable, in fact well-versed, in agrarian reform issues. Their discussion was lively because most of them freely shared their ideas and insights.

By nightfall, the marchers proceeded San Mateo Hot and Cold Resort located at Brgy. Monbon, Irosin. They were surprised to see that there were high school students from the School of Holy Spirit who were waiting for their arrival. The marchers were moved when the students handed them rosaries. They spent time to talk with the students and explain the whole story of their walk.

A mass was also celebrated, organized by Sister Frances Grace and some other sisters from the Congregation of Holy Spirit. The Sumilao Farmers were surprised to know that ten years ago, Sister Grace joined them once in their hunger strike in front of the DAR National Office in Quezon City. They were inspired that until now, after ten years, Sister Grace and the rest of the sisters of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit still believe and support their struggle.

Before going to bed, the Sumilao Farmers dived in the spring. Most of them chose the warm and relaxing effect of the hot spring, while some, particularly the younger ones, dived in the cold spring.

Revisiting the case of the Sumilao Farmers:

Quisumbing and/or SMFI Changed the Authorized Use of the Land

To make thing worse, once more fooled the Sumilao Farmers by selling the 144-hectare ancestral land to San Miguel Foods, Inc. (SMFI), the biggest conglomerate in the country owned by no less than Danding Cojuangco.

Such act only reveals that Quisumbing either did not have the interest nor the capacity to implement the approved agro-industrial plan. It could be surmised that Quisumbing did not plan to develop the said land in the first place. Otherwise, changes or improvements woule have taken p[lace immediately. Rather, Quisumbing fought the fight of converting the land so it could be sold at a good price to SMFI. The plan was evidently made to avoid the coverage of the land from CARP.

SMFI, through its sister company Monterey Livestock Farm, plans to put up a 144-hectare piggery with 162 buildings to house 4,400 female pigs and 44,000 piglets. The conditions of the Conversion Order issued by the Office of the President, specifically the implementation of the BAIDA development plan, were conveniently disregarded. Considering that SMFI is a mere successor-in-interest of Quisumbing, the conditions of the Conversion Order clearly binds the former as provided by DAR Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 2002:

"Section 33. Conditions of Conversion Order. The approval of the application for conversion order shall be subject to the following conditions:

The landowner and future landowners(s) of the property approved for conversion shall not change its use to another use not authorized under the Conversion Order without prior consent from the DAR.

Section 34. Effects of Approval of Conversion. The approval of an application for conversion shall have, but shall not be limited to the following effects:

It shall be limited to the specific use of the land authorized in the Conversion Order .

The conditions thereof shall be binding upong successors-interest of the property."

Such act of illegally converting the land to a piggery farm which completely different from the authorized use according to the application and the approved Conversion Order is another serious violation which needs to be addressed in accordance with law and justice.

Based on the foregoing, SMFI has grossly and willfully committed violations on laws and other issuances on land conversion, specifically, DAR Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 1990 in relation to DAR Administrative Order No. 2, Series of 1990, DAR Administrative Order No. 12, Series of 1994 (Consolidated and Revised Rules and Regulations Governing Conversion of Agricultural Lands to Non-Agricultural Uses), and DAR Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 2002. Without doubt, the violations are grounds for the immediate revocation of the Conversion Order given to Quisumbing and his successor-in-interest SMFI:

"Section 47. Grounds – The following acts or omissions shall warrant revocation of the Conversion Order:

Non-compliance with the conditions of the Conversion Order;

Conversion to a use other than that authorized in the Conversion Order. "

The Fellowship of the 144-hectare Land in Sumilao

So many people to thank for what had happened yesterday. To name a few, the Sumilao Farmers would like to thank for the solidarity of SANDIGAN, PAKISAMA, HSAI, PINAGSAMA, SAFSCO, Congregation of Holy Spirit Sisters and the high school students of the Holy Spirit School. They also would like to thank the owner/s of the San Mateo Hot and Cold Resort for providing the Sumilao Farmers a place to stay.

There were other unnamed faces who appeared yesterday to show their solidarity. To them, the marchers would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude.

Today

Today, they are negotiating a 37-kilometer road from Irosin to Sorsogon City with the Kilusan ng Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP).

Sumilao farmers update
Sumilao Farmers' Journey in Visayas II
8-9 November 2007

CROSSING THE RUBICON

"The die is cast."

These are the famous words of Julius Ceasar, the great Roman emperor, when he crossed the Rubicon. Rubicon was the river that Julius Caesar crossed when he marched his armies, in defiance of the Senate, against the armies of General Pompey. His strategy was one of "conquer or die." Once he crossed the river, there was no turning back. So, the phrase "crossing the Rubicon" has become as a popular idiom meaning to go past a point of no return.

This day also marks the "Crossing of the Rubicon" for the Sumilao farmers when they crossed the San Bernardino Strait from Northern Samar to Matnog, Sorsogon, at 4:00 in the afternoon.

Last moments in Visayas

Yesterday, they were in San Isidro. They reached said place at 2:00 p.m, after walking for 26 kilometers from barangay Pena, Calbayog, Samar starting at 4:00 am.

Upon reaching San Isidro, they were warmly welcomed by the support groups. The PARO (Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer) visited the farmers and ensured their food and accommodation. The farmers were thankful for the goodness shown by the DAR, they were unequivocal in their message that more than charity and kindness from DAR, they demand for DAR to perform its duty and give them justice.

Concerned of their safety, the local police also escorted their day's of walk.

While at San Isidro, they paused for reflection. There was a meeting of the team leaders, and a general assembly, where everyone shared their reflections, and discussed their next course of action upon reaching Luzon. Atty. Marlon Manuel of SALIGAN visited the farmers and personally expressed his solidarity and support.

The farmers left San Isidro Parish at 5:00 o'clock this morning to walked to Allen, their last stop in Visayas. Bishop Gaspar Balerite was waiting for them at Allen and gave his blessings for the safe and successful journey of the farmers. At 4:00 in the afternoon, the ferry left Allen and made its way to Matnog, Sorsogon.

Again, unexpected gifts just poured in. The farmers boarded the ferry for free, courtesy of Ms. Ethel, a classmate of Atty. Kaka Bag-ao from Ateneo Law School.

Historic crossing of the struggle

The crossing of the Sumilao farmers to Luzon marks a historic moment of their struggle, as well as the struggle of the peasant sectors of the country. While their crossing of the St. Bernardino strait may be compared to the Caesar's crossing of the Rubicon, the two historic events have striking contrasts.

First, Julius Caesar and his army sought glory, while the Sumilao farmers seek justice.

Second, Julius Caesar and his army had strong bodies and carried swords to destroy life, while the Sumilao farmers have weak bodies due to physical exhaustion from walking, and they only carry hope in their hearts that they may give life to their children by having a land of their own to till.

And third, Julius Caesar and his army violated the law when they crossed the river, because it was forbidden under the Roman Law, while the Sumilao farmers did not violate any law; instead, they are seeking redress for gross violation of their rights as granted to them by law.

Today, the farmers are so near Malacanang.

Today the Sumilao farmers cry, the "die is cast!"

Today and Tomorrow

The farmers shall rest at the parish of Matnog, and shall commence to walk early tomorrow at towards Irosin, spanning a distance of 23 kilometers. To begin their walk for Luzon, they performed a ritual asking the spirits to give them the same guidance while they were in Mindanao and Visayas.

The support groups: SANDIGAN, SALIGAN, PAKISAMA, LIKAS, DAR (provincial office), and the parish of Matnog shall accompany them in their walk to Irosin.

Revisiting the Case

The conversion order of then executive secretary Ruben Torres should be cancelled/revoked.

The reason for the cancellation/revocation of the conversion order, among others, is that m ore than five years passed but no development was ever introduced in the area, which is a violation of the existing law. Worse, said landholding was sold to San Miguel Foods, Inc. (SMFI), which only shows the lack of interest on the part of NQSRMDC to pursue its development plan.

Administrative Order No. 1 series of 2002 (2002 Comprehensive Rules on Land Use Conversion) is very clear. Said administrative order says that within one year from issuance of the Conversion Order, the landowner and/or developer shall commence development on the property approved for conversion and shall complete development not later than the deadline(s) set forth in its site development plan schedule, but in no case shall development extend beyond five (5) years from the issuance of the Conversion Order.

Hence, having failed to initiate or undertake any single development work in the area, in violation of the conditions of the conversion order pursuant to the rules governing conversion, said conversion order should be revoked/cancelled.

Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice Updates

7 November 2007

Sumilao Farmers' Journey in Visayas II

6 November 2007

The Sumilao Farmers spent the entire morning for reflection session. They were asked two questions: What is the most striking experience for you in the Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice Campaign?; and what is your expectations from the campaign starting tomorrow until we reach Malacanang?

From the answers, it can be observed that they seem to read the minds of their fellow marchers. For the first question, there were three common answers. They said that they will always remember their sufferings while walking; The hardships, until some of their fellow marchers became weak, while some fainted and had to be rushed to the hospitals. Others expressed the consolation that at least, they were able to reach places they never thought they can visit in their lifetime. The rest said that they will always vividly remember the faces of by-standers and motorists, and the support these people extended to the farmers.

For the second question, there was only one answer: They expect to reclaim their land. They hope that the challenges and struggles they encountered will bring success and bring back their dashed hopes.

Right after they feasted with a simple lunch prepared by the Diocese of Calbayog, The City Health Officer, together with other medical practitioners in the City visited the marchers and conducted a Medical Mission. Dr. Grace Bag-ao, the lone volunteer medic accompanying the marchers, felt relieved.

After the Medical Mission, Bishop Abarquez facilitated a community-building activity. He taught the marchers some action songs where everyone participated with gusto. Thereafter, he celebrated mass together with Father Cezar Aculan. The homily moved the marchers to tears, but it them more determined to continue with their cause, as well.

The sermon focused on their peaceful campaign. The Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice Campaign may not be famous, but the impact of this campaign will ripple through several years, if not through eternity. Indeed, the pilgrimage is not only for the cause of the Sumilao farmers but importantly for all the farmers in the country.

The two priests kept repeatedly expressed their solidarity with the farmers and advised them to write a letter to the President of the CBCP.

The Correspondents

Last night, the 54 Sumilao Farmers and their support groups gathered at around 11:30PM to watch ABS-CBN program, The Correspondents. They were all excited to see themselves on national television. But they were more excited to see on TV, the families they left in Sumilao, Bukidnon. It has been 26 days since they left.

It was a one-hour program, and the farmers were all attentively watching. They smiled every time they see themselves on TV. Others alternately teased their fellow marchers as telegenic and ugly. They had a grand time ribbing one another.

They validated the facts presented by the correspondents reporter, Adrian Ayalin. The farmers even managed to engage in discussion among themselves while watching.

When the show featured the marchers' families in Sumilao, the marchers were no longer able to contain the tears in their eyes. After 26 days, they again saw the faces of their families. They were saddened because their families were left to work in their farm. Yoyong, one of the marchers commented that her mother was too old to do the farming. She should have stayed at home instead. But since they are involved in the campaign, they had no option. While they have to fight to reclaim their lands, their families have to eat too.

Message to Ruben Torres

The then Executive Secretary who issued the conversion order in favor of the Quisumbings was interviewed in the program. According to him, he pitied the Sumilao Farmers; They had to resort to a long walk just to get publicity. Not contented with his first indictment, he further said that he did not understand the real intention of the leaders of the Sumilao Farmers when these leaders allowed their members to take the ardous walk from Bukidnon to Manila.

The statement given by Torres angered the Sumilao Farmers. They said, they don't need his or anyone's pity. What they need is the 144-hectare land that is legally theirs. But they pity Torres. Unlike him, they know the difference between right and wrong. Though they did not earn college and law degrees, they know RA 6657 or the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL) by heart.

The campaign to take the 1700-kilometer walk in 60 days was reached through a consensus decision by all members of San Vicente Landless Farmers' Association (SALFA) and Mapadayonong Panaghiusa sa mga Lumad Alang sa Damlag (MAPALAD) Farmers.

The Sumilao Farmers would like to send this message to Ruben Torres:

He can say anything he wants to say, try to bring the Sumilao Farmers down. But they won't face the ground, they will rise steadily, sailing out of their reach. He can try hard to make them feel that they don't matter at all. But they refuse to falter in what they believe or lose faith in their dreams. Because there's a light in them that shines brightly – their DIGNITY. Torres can try, but he can't take that away from the Sumilao Farmers.

Revisiting the Sumilao Land:

Supreme Court Ruled on Technicalities

Unexpectedly, the Supreme Court evaded the resolution of the substantial issues of the case and found one perfect excuse: reglementary period. The Supreme Court refused to answer the constitutional issues and asserted that the DAR failed to question the Torres Conversion Order on time. The Supreme Court invalidated President Ramos' "Win-Win Solution" while it reinstated the Torres Conversion Order approving the conversion of the 144-hectare land to agro-industrial. The conversion of the land to agro-industrial was affirmed, despite the fact that its conversion was contrary to existing laws and administrative orders, simply because the Conversion Order issued by Executive Secretary Torres already became final when President Ramos issued the "Win-Win Solution". In effect, the Supreme Court skirted merits and yielded to technicalities.

Worst, the Supreme Court denied the Sumilao Farmers standing in the case by equivocally saying they were merely "recomendee farmer beneficiaries, hence, have no real interest over the land. It further stated that the Sumilao Farmers were never tenants, not even tillers of the land. The court's declaration was a huge injustice to the Sumilao Farmers considerting that they were already the owners of the land by virtue of the Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) previously given to them under the agrarian reform law. It was an offensive attach on their dignity as peasants and an insult to the Higaonons.

The iniquitous decision compelled Robin Lession, one of the MAPALAD hunger strikers, to take his own life days after the decision came out. He only dreamt of cultivating a piece of agricultural land and providing a decent living for his family and children. His basic desire of owning a land for his family vanished in an instant. His frustration and disappointment were shared by the Sumilao Farmers and the rest of the peasantry.

The Supreme Court pronouncements have a chilling effect on the state of agrarian reform in the country. The decision created a confusion on the existing policies on conversions of agricultural lands, power of LGUs to reclassify agricultural lands and legal standing of farmer-beneficiaries. In many instances, the confusion on policies is being utilized by landowners to evade the implementation of the CARP.

The Fellowship of the 144-hectare land in Sumilao

As they leave their footprints in Visayas, the Sumilao Farmers will always cherish the overwhelming support they received from individuals and like-minded groups. The Sumilao Farmers in their entire walk never felt alone. And though they still could not find enough and appropriate words to thank these people, from the bottom of their heart, they would like to express their gratitude to the following:

· KAISAHAN for coordinating the Visayas leg;

· Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Region, province and municipalities;

· Regional Director Homer, PARO Toto and the provincial offices, and MARO of the DAR;

· KAISAMPALAD, EVNet, IDPG, MODE, PMP, AFF, BRAMO, KAMAO, JACOFA, CODE NGO and PhilDHRRA;

· Dioceses, SACs, BECs, Parishes and other church personnel and institutions for providing the food, accommodation and spiritual needs of the Sumilao Farmers;

· PNP, Military and other Law Enforcement Agents; and

· By-standers and motorists.

· (and those who were not included in the above enumeration)

The Sumilao Farmers are leaving Visayas with brimming with memories in their heart that will keep on saying: Forward always forward, onward, always up. Catching every drop of hope, in my (their) empty cup. Indeed, what a journey it has been…

Today and Tomorrow

They are now in Brgy. Pinya, Calbayog City. Tomorrow, they will walk to Tinambakan and will be just a municipality away from Allen where they take the boat to start their Luzon leg. Malacanang may still continue to turn their deaf on the issue and the suffering of the Sumilao Farmers, but soon, when farmers will be approaching the gates of Malacanang, Gloria Arroyo is left with no other choice, but to deal with the Sumilao Farmers. SOON

--
As posted by :

Balay Alternative Legal Advocates for Development in Mindanaw (BALAOD Mindanaw)
Door 3 Balay Mindanaw SIAD Peace Center
53A 12th St., zone II, Upper Bulua
9000 Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
+63 8822 738794
+63 8822 738794 (telefax)
balaodmindanaw@gmail.com
balaod_mindanaw@yahoo.com

Sumilao IP Farmer's March for Justice

2007-10-17T18:12:00.000-11:00

Get involved!

Ten years after the farmers of Sumilao were granted their right to own their land, they STILL HAVE NOT BEEN GIVEN JUSTICE. They've chosen to do something about it:
They are marching from Sumilao (that's in Bukidnon) all the way to Manila to protest the lack of action from the government in restoring what is rightfully theirs. And by marching, I literally mean walking.

The farmers need P10, 000 per day for their nearly three-month journey. I just decided today to be committed to what I believe in, and I believe in every human being having what is rightfully theirs. Help me take a stand to bring justice to the farmers of Sumilao.

How can you help? You can sign the on-line petition from http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/sumilaofarmers/
The goal is to get at least 1 Million signatures.

You can also donate to PAKISAMA, the NGO that's helping the farmers. Visit http://sumilaomarch.multiply.com and email them to ask for the bank account for the Sumilao farmers.

Patunayan natin sa lahat na kaya natin 'to. Patunayan natin sa lahat na merong tunay na hustisya sa Pilipinas. :)

It all starts with you.

(salamat kay pj for this post)

Be not afraid. Be the difference. Volunteer.

2007-10-17T15:32:00.000-11:00

The poster reads:

She could have been abroad.

But Rosa Fe M. Hipolito, a registered nurse, is a Jesuit Volunteer in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. She assures a young T'boli student " be not afraid" in a physical examination.

For over 27 years, the Jesuit Volunteers Philippines sends volunteers college graduates and young professionals to work for and with the poor and marginalized.

Jesuit Volunteers are sent as rural teachers, alternative educators, community and youth organizers.

Be not afraid. Be the difference. Volunteer.

For more details on how to volunteer, visit www.jvpfi.org
For inquiries, email jvp.applications@yahoo.com

(salamat kay nikki na gumawa ng ad na ito...)

Jesuit Volunteers Philippines: Recruitment Talk in CDO

2007-10-03T21:39:00.000-11:00

For single graduating students andprofessionals not more than 35 yearsold, you are all invited to join the JVP Recruitment Talk on October 6,2007 from 2-4 p.m. at XU Board Room,Old Library Building, Xavier University , Corrales Avenue, Cagayande Oro City.

For more information you may visit the JVP website at www.jvpfi.or g or contact Kris(09194402573,krisjvp25@yahoo.co m)of theJVP Cagayan de Oro Local Community.

Benefit Concert for the Education of Indigenous Children

2007-10-03T21:04:00.001-11:00

For those in the Metro Manila Area:
Below is an announcement for the upcoming concert "Mia Razon" of the Sta. Teresita of Miarayon and the Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan featuring Bukas Palad Singers and Hangad Singers and guest singer, Noel Cabangon.

The concert will be held on October 13, 2007, 6:30 pm at the Cardinal Sin Center, Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo de Manila campus, Quezon City and will be for the benefit of the children of the Talaandig Tribe in Miarayon, Bukidnon. Miarayon is a parish under the Jesuits. Fr. Dario Saniel, S.J. is the present parish priest and director of the St. Therese High School of Miarayon.

Out of our desire to be of help to the poorest of the poor, the children and people of Miarayon, Talakag,
Bukidnon we haveformed Sta. Teresita of Miarayon, Inc. (STM), a non-government organization which aims to enrich the lives of the Miarayon community through Education and Livelihood programs.

We are composed of individuals who have found our reason(mi razon – my reason – mia rayon), and our being in this mystical cultural community.

Drawn to the joyful and simple living of Miarayon folks, weare simply moved to "give back".

Inspired by St. Therese of Lisieux, Patron Saint of Miarayon, we are one with the community in the mission of fighting poverty and upholding the Lumad's basic rights to education and development while preserving their cultural identity. STM's goal is to help develop projects that will improve the lives of the people belonging to the Tala-andig tribe in Miarayon, Talakag,Bukidnon.

We invite you to join us in our advocacy! Help us in this worthwhile effort for the benefit of the indigenous children.

For ticket inquiries and other details, please contact RC BATAC at 426-6101 local 3440/ 3441.

Madakel ha Salamat ta Inyu Alan! (Thank you very much to all of you!)

Uphold the Indigenous Peoples Rights!

2007-10-03T20:29:00.000-11:00

The Talaandig Tribe of Sungco celebrates anually the Talaandig Day. Stories would tell that on October 14, 1975, the Government, through Marcos granted amnesty to several Talaandig Tribal leaders who joined the Lumad Uprising in Bukidnon protesting military abuses and land grabbing during those times.

Nowadays, the IPs of Bukidnon is still experiencing the same fate yet for generations, they still maintained the same resolve: Defending their culture and domain at all cost. We urge everyone to join us in our advocacy of upholding the indigenous people's rights!

As we also celebrate the Indigenous Peoples Month this October, may we also re-affirm our commitment to value the the rights of our Lumad brothers and sisters by respecting their culture and joining them in their effort to determine a future for their generation that is free, equal and just.

blue

2007-09-18T17:09:00.001-11:00

i watched the game last night...

so sad...
and its always like this for several seasons already...

we missed the sweet chance of swiftly going to the finals...
first it was NU...
heartbreaking blow on the final clock....
it was tied then we were left behind...swiftly at that...

and last night...it was with the greens... of all teams but never the greens...
but unfortunately...they had the night...a sweet win at that...just a point though...

we beat them twice previously but they chanced us for the third but crucial...very crucial game last night...

and now... the blue boys need to enter the finals in a harder way... needing to win all three incoming games...

hahahay... so sad.... but challenging still.

UAAP finals is boring without the blue eagles and the archers... the fourth clash will be historic..

watching the blue corner during that very crucial moment, i admired the maturity of the team....of how positive they were despite the little time left... the desire to win was there... the spirit was intense...

I believe it will be the same maturity and spirit till the end of the season.

Support the Advocacy for Lumad Education

2007-06-27T13:45:00.000-11:00

WHITE WATER RAFTING FOR INDIGENOUSPEOPLES' EDUCATION

Take a thrilling adventure and make itworth a lifetime for a child!

Cartwheel Foundation invites you to experience the renowned Cagayan de OroRiver white water rapids and raft for indigenous peoples' education, together with The Red Rafts and Men's Health Magazine.

Starting this June until October 2007, raft with The Red Rafts,Cagayan de Oro's premier outfitter, and part of the proceeds of your trip will benefit the educational programs of Cartwheel.

There are an estimated 12 million indigenous peoples (IPs) in thePhilippines and they have little or no access to quality education. Cartwheel is committed to bridging the gap and ensuring that they enjoy their right to education that is best suited to their culture and education. You, too, can lend your support and have a blast while you're at it-- you migh just discover the ride of your life!

Go with your friends or even take the whole office for an outing (special team building activities are included).Reserve your trip now!Call/text: +63922-454-0021 or +63919-204-3534

Note: Cebu Pacific promo of P99 fare to CDO available from June 21 to 27!

For more detailed information, you contact action@cartwheelfou ndation.org .

Madakel Salamat,

Gali Talabuntud

asa ba gyud?

2007-06-11T00:17:00.000-11:00

sangandaan

walang komplikasyon sa buhay mo noon
kalooban mo'y panatag,
kalangitan ay maliwanag
ang daan ay tuwid at patag
sa buhay mo noon.

ngunit bawat pusong naglalakbay
dumarating sa sangandaan
ngayong narito kakailangang magpasya
aling landas ang susundin ng puso?
saan ka liligaya?
saan mabibigo?
saan ka tutungo?

kay daling sumunod sa hangin at agos
aasa ka na ang dalangin
gagabay sa 'yong damdamin
ngunit saan ka dadalhin
ng hangin at agos?

alam mong bawat pusong nagmamahal
dumarating sa sangandaan
ngayong narito kakailangang magpasya
aling landas ang susundin ng puso?
saan ka liligaya?
saan mabibigo?
saan ka tutungo?

sangandaan

2007-06-11T00:03:00.000-11:00

Alin ba ang naaayon?
Ang NAIS o ang DAPAT?
Ang Ninanais o ang Nararapat?

Para sa mga nagtatanong, para sa inyo ang kanatang ito...

----

Sangandaan

walang komplikasyon sa buhay mo noon

kalooban mo'y panatag,

kalangitan ay maliwanag

ang daan ay tuwid at patag

sa buhay mo noon.

ngunit bawat pusong naglalakbay

dumarating sa sangandaan

ngayong narito ka

kailangang magpasya

aling landas ang susundin ng puso?

saan ka liligaya?

saan mabibigo?

saan ka tutungo?

kay daling sumunod sa hangin at agos

aasa ka na ang dalangin

gagabay sa 'yong damdamin

ngunit saan ka dadalhin

ng hangin at agos?

alam mong bawat pusong nagmamahal

dumarating sa sangandaan

ngayong narito kakailangang magpasya

aling landas ang susundin ng puso?

saan ka liligaya?

saan mabibigo?

saan ka tutungo?

Ulan! Ulan! Ulan!

2007-06-02T20:34:00.001-11:00

Dayegon ta ang ting-init,

sa paghatag kanato sa higayon

nga magbulad-bulad sa daplin sa baybay,

ug magtampisaw sa tubig ilawon sa adlaw.

Buluhan ang mga katanoman

ug ang uga nga yuta

nga dugay nang naghandum mabu-buan

sa tam-is nga tagak sa ulan.

Dawaton ta sa tumang pagsadya,

ang ting-ulan nga gipaabot,

sa mga mag-uuma, itik ug mga baki!

Hala! Biraha ang kabaw,

Daroha ang yuta!

I-andam ang mga binhi,

Ug ipugas ang kinabuhi!

A Message From Dr. Martin Bautista of Ang Kapatiran Party

2007-06-02T19:21:00.000-11:00

Election's Over

The election is over. It is time to examine, and to both skeptics and sympathizers alike, explain my participation in it.

I gave up a flourishing medical practice in America , joined Kapatiran and ran for the Senate because I wanted not merely to prove a point, but to live by it.

And the point is this: we can change our country, help our people, not by talking or theorizing but by actually doing something about it. One cannot simply make a statement. He must apply it in his life, by example, by involvement, by action. Our political campaign was such a statement.

Did we succeed? We did not get enough votes for a seat in the senate. But we did get the attention of the electorate and, more importantly, we made people aware of alternative solutions, better political options.

We demonstrated that it is possible to conduct an open, honest, vigorous campaign on programs, not personalities.We showed that there is no need for false promises, political gimmickry, immoderate spending; but that there is a need for continuing communication, defending and justifying our positions and priorities.

Our fundamental premise is this: Politics is not a means of livelihood. It is not an economic investment that will pay off in future material gain. Politics is a way of giving, of sharing, of helping. It is not soliciting support but providing it. It is not about rendering service in the senate when elected, but rendering service now, in the present, in this time and place, in one's capacity as a candidate, a citizen, a Filipino of compassion.

If we have, even in a small, tentative way, we have redefined politics in the Philippines , then we have been fully recompensed for our efforts. The accomplishments of our greatest heroes cannot be judged in the simplistic terms of triumph or defeat. Like Burgos , Gomez and Zamora , the Kapatiran candidates won no instant victory. But they achieved a beginning, advanced the cause for reform, and awakened a hope that such reform is possible.

A personal note of accountability. We received donations from many sectors of society. Added to our own private contribution to the campaign, the total amount exceeded our modest campaign expenses. The balance we shall turn over to Gawad Kalinga in accordance with our conviction that politics is not an enterprise for profit.

Finally I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to all the men and women of goodwill who stand with us in the common belief in a Filipino future.

Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.

Martin Bautista, MD

Keep it Clean

2007-05-13T14:19:00.000-11:00

Honesty is the BEST Policy Today

2007-05-13T14:15:00.000-11:00

Today is election day.
I just hope and pray that this day provides new hope for the Filipino people.

When most of the people sees corruption,
I pray that one still crave for reform.
Today, the very least that we can do is to be honest.

If we cant be involved...
If we cant be vigilant...
If we cant be critical...
At least, we seek for ourselves today,
Just be Honest.
That is all that matters most today.

And it would make a difference.

lakwatsa

2006-08-13T01:54:00.000-11:00

lakwatsa

Hay kinabuhi!Mibangon ko alas 4:00 sa kadlawon. lami pa unta muhinanok apan pugos nga gi-alsa ang kaugalingon kabug-at ug midulong sa banyo aron maligo.

Sakto, alas 4:30, presko na ug gaan na ibuka ang mga mata. Mibaktas gamay pagawas sa eskina ug misakay sa sikad. Dayon mitung-tong sa jeep ug wala madugay, anaa na ako sa terminal. Gipangita ang bus nga padulong Malaybalay City Bukidnon.

Ang tumong: musimba didto sa Monasteryo sa Benedictine o Monastery of the Transfiguration. Apan ang pinaka-tumong: muambit sa binulan nga Brunch with the Monks!
Sa laktod nga pagka-istorya, mangumbira. Kini kinabuhi!

Pagkahuman sa katapusan nga pangaliya,
ug una miduko ang pari atubangan sa altar,
ang akong huna-huna gimanduan sa akong gakutoy nga tiyan:
gihikap ang agtang: ug sa kahilom miingon, HUNA-HUNAA
gibutang ang tuong kamot ubos sa tiyan: ug sa kahilom gihapon miingon: ANG IMONG TIYAN
ug gitapik ang manag-pikas nga abaga: GAMITA ang imong DUHA ka KAMOT
dayon gihalukan ang tuo nga mga tudlo: ug miingon, KAY IKAW GIGUTOM! Amen! : )

Humba nga gasinaw-sinaw, nilagpad nga piniritong isda nga adunay sacue! , de color nga kan-on nga gitawag man siguro kadto'g Java rice : ), piniritong manok, init nga kape ug saging!

Pastilan Budoy! Wa' gyud ka makatilaw Budoy!
kay kung naa pay sikwate'd bulad unta,
magsadya gyud ang akong kasing-kasing sa pagsinggit sa langitnong himaya!

Apan ang nagpalami gayud sa maong pani-mahaw (pani-udto'g pamahaw) mao ang higayon nga uban ang mga suod nga mga higala. Katawa ginagmay, dayon hungit dinaghan!
Walay makatupong sa kanindot sa pahiyom nga gidungagan sa nagsinaw nga ngabil!
Higop-higop dayon ug brewed coffee, pastilan! labaw pa sa konsehal!
Pagka-lami sa paminsar! Pag-kalami gyud baya muhigop ang kape inubanan sa mabugnaw nga huyuhoy sa hangin!

Kung ana-a ka lang unta Budoy! Nakatilaw na gyud unta ka!
Maka-siyagit ka gyud: dis is layp!

Apan kay ang matag higayon, aduna man gayu'y katapusan,
Akong gitapos ang maong okasyon sa usa ka pamalandong...

Brewed kofi, great prends, good fud, mahinuklugong pagsimba...

Ang duha ka oras nga byahe sa bus, murag perti rang dali-a!
Mga higala, kung makahigayon kamo,
Duyug kanamo.
Kada ika-duhang Dominggo sa Bulan.
Brunch with the Monks.
Monastery of the Transfiguration.
Malaybalay City.

Makurat ka. Naay taga-Ozamis, Iligan City ug bisan Tagum City.
Ngil-ngig gyud!
Murag sunod, suwayan ku:Mamahaw sa Bukidnon ug Manihapon sa Zamboanga.
Mahimo kaha?

Unsa man Budoy? Mutilaw ka o dili?

:)

PeaceTech2

2006-08-09T22:25:00.000-11:00

mga higala, basig naa moy ma-recommend para ani. Nasugatan ra nako kini diri sa cyber-kawanangan. Baig si Kaubang Jerry naay matuboy para nganhi. Sa interesado, kontaka lang palihug ang nagsuwat:

Orlan de Guzman, Jr.
Peacemakers' Circle
09187822805
9207622
peacemakerscircle_uri@yahoo.com
_________

August 9, 2006

Dear All:

Warmest greetings.

PeaceTech 2 is being held on August 28 in the same places as PeaceTech 1 – USM, Kabacan, and UP Diliman, Quezon City. PeaceTech 2’s (PT2) theme is Prejudice and Discrimination towards Muslims, IPs and Christians in the Philippines

I am contacting you for your assistance on finding panelists for PeaceTech 2. The Peace Education Center of Miriam College is finding three panelists for the event. I am finding three others.

The three panelists I am looking for are:
1) An IP victim of discrimination from either Mindanao, the Cordillera or Metro Manila;
2) A community worker in Manila who works on building greater understanding and tolerance between Muslims and Christians; and
3) A success story from Mindanao. This person was either a victim of discrimination or guilty of discrimination. He/she has forgiven or changed his ways and is now doing something positive towards building tolerance.

The more powerful, visual, recent, and personal the story, the greater the effect it has. In PeaceTech 1, one of our panelists made the cover page of the Philippine Star because her story was graphic and because it was about one event that the audience could easily visualize.

The purpose of the story-telling is to:
1) represent the extent of discrimination that IPs and Muslims suffer in the Philippines; and
2) show that there are young people who are taking positive actions to build greater understanding and forgiveness.

Each panelist has five minutes to tell his/her story in a panel of six story tellers. The stories are heard by hundreds of youth in Luzon and Mindanao and are sometimes picked up by the media.

The three panelists I am looking for must be children or youth under 30 years old. They can speak in their own languages and don’t need to speak Tagalog or English – we will have a translator if necessary. And naturally, they cannot be too shy so they can speak in front of many people.

We would need the panelist confirmed by August 18th.

PeaceTech would cover all expenses involved in finding, transporting and accommodating the candidate.

Is there any way that you could help me find one of the above three mentioned panelists over the next few days? I will reimburse you for any expenses you incur.

I do appreciate your help. The more powerful the story we find, the greater the effect of the series.

With my thanks and hope to speak with you soon,

Robin Petifer

Kinabuhi sa Tumoy sa Akong mga Tudlu.

2006-06-26T22:41:00.000-11:00

sa paglabay sa panahon,
susama sa bakal
pagatay-an ang mga panghuna-huna
kung kini sa alimpatakan,
magpabilin lang.

apan bisan sa kadugay'ng higayon,
sa pagkahinanok
kini paga-pukawon.

aron mapadayag ug masabwag,
ang mga bulawanong titik
nga buot mahipatik.

...ug ang huna-huna
mibuhi sa kahilom..

ug miiktad
padu'ng
sa tumoy
sa akong mga tudlu.

ug diha,
ang pulong nahimong buhi!

...paglabay sa panahon.

pahinungod kang che...sa pagdasig : )

2005-05-13T03:28:00.000-11:00

hinaut nga ang huna-huna,

magdagan sa kaidlap,

aron ibutyag

ang natihagong kaanyag,

sa mga pulong

nga gilubong

ilawom sa kasing-kasing.

PANAW sa KINABUHI ( retitled, a repost)

2005-05-13T02:50:00.000-11:00

Sa atong pagbaktas baktas,
makasugat ta ug bisan unsa lang.

Usahay, bato nga makapandol,
lungag nga makabulasot,
o panit sa saging nga maka dalin-as.
Usahay, landong.
Usahay init.

Apan, kasagaran,
sa imong pagbaklay-baklay,
daghan usab nga butang
ang imong masaksihan.
Nagkadaiyang mga dagway sa tao, sa palibot.
Sama sa nawong nga nag-mug-ot,
Dagway nga mapahiyumon,
Naay Tawo nga isnabero, ug uban pa.

Anaa usab mga talan-awon nga sakit sa mata.
Sama sa basura nga gikatag sa iro,
Dalan nga lapokon,
jeep nga itom ug aso!
ug tawo nga mangihi bisan asa!

Apan ang mas maanindot
sa pagbaklay-baklay,
mao ang kamatuoran,
nga sa matag tikang,
kita adunay kapa-ingnan,
ug ang matag tunob,
magbilin ug timailhan, (gawas kung sementado and dalan :o)
Nga kita miagi na nianang lugara,
ug mupadayon sa pagtikang
,hangtud muabot sa gitinguha sa matag tunob:

ANG KALIPAY NGA GAHULAT SA TUMOY SA MATAG DALAN.

Sa pagbaklay-baktas sa kinabuhi,
Panington ta ug usahay ug bugnaw.
Kasagaran, igang. Init.
Usahay pud mahumod ta sa ulan.

Basta padayon lang kita Higala.
Kay aduna usab kahayahay,
Gikan sa hoyoyoy sa Hangin,
Ug sa panganod nga magtabon,sa init ni Haring Adlaw.

Kung ikaw kapuyon,
Hunong lang kadyot,
Ug pasilong ilawom,
sa Punuan ni Higalang Kahoy.

Sa Bugta Dan

2005-03-21T10:30:00.000-11:00

Mabungahong Panagtigum!
tibook adlaw,
ako nakighimamat
sa mga lider mag-uuma,
mga kauban sa tinguha.
mga kababaenhan,
katigulangan sa tribu,
ug abtik nga kabatan-onan.

usa ang gibarugan.
yuta panalipdan
alang sa umaabot
nga kaliwatan.

apan,
higayon dili sayon.
dagkung agalong yutaan,
nagkuput sa tinubdan
kinabuhi gikan sa kayutaan.

bisan pa,
tinguha pagabarugan.
Mag-uuma, Tribu ug mga Kauban,
Tambayayong
padulong sa kadaugan.

hangtud aduna pa'y
singot nga ikatulu,
kusog nga ikagbisog,
kamut nga ikapaningkamut,
tingog nga ikasinggit,
hanging ikaginhawa,
dughan sa gisugdan,
lugas nga ikapugas,

kab-uton ang tinguha!
dayon sa pagpadayon!

The Words of Mandela

2005-03-20T18:30:00.000-11:00

Our deepest fear
is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear
is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light,
not our darkness that frightens us.
We ask ourselves,
who am
I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?

Actually,
who are we NOT to be?
You are a child of God.

Your playing small doesn't serve the world.
There's nothing enlightened about shrinking
so that other people won't feel insecure around you.

We were born to manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone.
And as we let our own lightshine,
we unconciously give other people
the permission to do the same.
As we liberate ourselves from our own fears,
our presence automatically liberates others.

mitamurposis

2005-03-20T02:45:00.000-11:00

hataas na nga higayon,
naghandum nga
ang matag duga
sa talagsa-ong
hiyas,
mu-ikyas
gawas
sa pagkumkom.

ug karon...

kagawasan!
sa pagbati
nga dugay
nang nag-antus,
bo-ut
musabwag
sa panganduyng
dugay nang
nagdila-ab!

kadaugan!
alang sa kasing-kasing
nga naghandum
makab-ot
ang tiunay nga
Kalipay!

Diha-diha,
ako nahimong Ako!