Farmers say unrest brewing in Laguindingan

Leaders of peasant groups from Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental are calling on the provincial government to intervene amid threats of unrest

after they accused the Ayala Corporation of not fulfilling promises made some 20 years ago when the corporation bought land near what is now the Laguindingan Airport.

Elderico Omongos, chairman of the Moog Farmers Association (MOFA) and Globen Mabalos, spokesperson of Tubajon Farmers Association (TFA), both appeared before the Governor Yevgeny Vincente `Bambi’ Emano yesterday, November 14, to ask for help and assistance.

Both Omongos and Mabalos claimed they have been disturbed by unidentified men whom they said were seemingly spying or monitoring their respective activities.

The two said their families have yet to experience such fears and worries until the incidents recently.

However, they could not ascertain who and what group is behind this.

“Nabalaka mi kay naay duha ka motor nga galabay sa among balay panahon sa gabii (We fear because there are 2 motorcycles passing our house especially at night),” Mabalos said.

“Dunay mga tawo nga panahon sa gabii nga murag gapaniid unya among mga iro saba kaayo nga gusto modasmag. Sukad wala mi kasinati ani (There are men who seemed to be spying us and we cannot sleep because of the dogs that are keep on barking),” Omongos said.

The farmer leaders said this only happened after they pressed their claims for disturbance compensation allegedly promised by the Ayala Corporation after the conversion of the land they occupied in Laguindingan town.

Already, Omongos and Mabalos went to the police station yesterday to report the incident and have been coordinating with the barangay for their protection and safety.

Omongos said they want the governor to meddle by initiating a dialogue with the Ayala Corporation if only to address all their concerns.

They also want to hear the thoughts and the kind of assistance Emano could possibly extend to their groups.

“Gusto namo nga matabangan mi ni governor nga makalingkod uban sa Ayala ug sa DAR,”Omongos said.

The group was referred yesterday to the provincial legal office to discuss the problem.