1st Update: Day 1
Around 312 farmers from Sicogon Island and some part of Northern Iloilo today started their week-long march to mark the first ever historical “EXODUS” for Land, LIFE and DIGNITY in Iloilo to register their discontent and protest from continuing threat and harassment from landowners and inactions of government agencies to their land cases.
Sicogon Island in Carles town is approximately 140-kilometer walk to Iloilo city proper.
Braving the cold and bad weather confronting Visayas area, men and women peasants with their children under the Pagtingob sang mga Mangunguma sa Kaumahan (PASAMAKA- KATARUNGAN) started their walk at 7:12 am from Panian crossing Estancia, Iloilo carrying placards and streamers saying: BULIG (Help) Sicogon!.
At 9:28 am, the group reached Salong Batad town and continued their walk carrying their belongings, and stopped over in Barangay Tamangi San Dionisio town at 10:29 am and had their early lunch.
Chanting "CARP extension with Reform Ipasa na! and Bulig Sicogon!, the group still stood strong when they finally approached the Parish church of Sara town at exactly 4:04 pm wherein Fr. Juan Parenas awaits for them to help the peasants for their shelter and food on the first night.
The PASAMAKA – KATARUNGAN strongly opposed the recent Joint Resolution No. 19 that was approved by the Congress instead of the much awaited extension of Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) last December 2008.
Under the said resolution, the Compulsory Acquisition (CA) mode of CARP, which is the heart of agrarian reform, will be suspended and this will automatically cancel the distribution of some 3,089 hectares of private agricultural lands (PAL)-which constitutes about 63% of the total balance of CARP (as of December 2008) in the province of Iloilo alone.
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) on the other hand, issued memorandum No. 09-01804 which orders the deferment of the “processing of the Compulsory Acquisition including landholdings already in the pipeline, and survey activities for lands under CA until further notice.”
Both the Joint Resolution No. 19 and the DAR Memorandum 09-01804 define disaster for the poor peasant who have pending application for coverage as the landowners will be using these to block agrarian reform—like the case of the Sicogon farmers.
Last December 10, 2008, some one-hundred (100) peasant-families from Sicogon [2] voluntarily evacuated and left the island to seek refuge and protection from the government. These families are displaced farmers of the 809-hectare property of the Sicogon Development Corporation (SIDECO), and are members of the Federation of Sicogon Fisherfolk and Farmers Association (FESSIFA) [3]. Their ordeals and suffering commenced when the farmers petitioned SIDECO property to be covered under the government’s Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and when they opposed the ’SICOGON ISLAND RESORT COMPLEX’[4] proposed by SIDECO.
The farmers’ “exodus” was prompted when the armed-men of SIDECO declared “HUWES DE KUTSIYO”[5] and commenced terrorizing the communities.
Background:
For the last quarter of 2008, amidst the initiative of the peasant sector to campaign for the extension of CARP, several number of human-rights violation cases were registered in the island of Sicogon:
1. On November 22-23, 2008, the training center of FESIFFA was destroyed by the hired goons of SIDECO headed by Ian Sarrosa. Plants were uprooted. A shanty of one farmer was also destroyed by fire.
2. On November 24, the house of Amelia dela Cruz, Vice-President of FESIFFA, was demolished by the armed-men of SIDECO.
3. On November 26, 2008, Thelma Padios, 62 years old, was brutally murdered. She was gathering a cogon-grass when she was attacked by the perpetrator who was later on intercepted by the local fishermen of the municipality of Conception which was turned over to the local police and later on turned over to PNP in Carles. However, it was believed that the assassin was not alone when Thelma was murdered because there are still unidentified men roaming on the island.
During the same period, another farmer-beneficiary was killed in barangay Libertad, Banate, Iloilo, in the person on Jose "Muting’ Banca. Muting was only 32 years-old when he was killed by an armed-men identified as workers of Hacienda Valderrama. Muting was an active member of the PASAMAKA, a peasant organization campaigning for the installation of some 34-CLOA holders in the 99-hectare property of Danilo Valderrama.
In January 2009, SIDECO issued an ’Eviction Notice’ to the island dwellers. The people were only given 15 days to vacate their areas. When the island-dwellers refused to leave, two (2) more houses were demolished. Unfortunately, the government agencies were reluctant to intervene.
As of this day, the private army of SIDECO has continued terrorizing the island-dwellers. Farmers are no longer allowed to enter into their farm-lots to perform their farming activities.
In this light, we call on the government to please intervene and listen to our appeal:
– Immediate provision of food, water, medical assistance and protection to the displaced farmers and their families;
– Provision of lawyers and Para-legal experts who may be able to defend them in court and work towards the dismissal of their case;
– Disarm, disband and prosecute all armed goons of SIDECO;
– Assist the safe return of affected farmers and their families to their homes in Sicogon island and ensure their personal security and the protection of their human rights, so they are able to continue with work without undue fear or interference from SIDECO and its private army;
– Reparation for the families affected by the displacement;
– DAR-PNP assisted harvest, re-deployment of PNP for the re-establishment of detachment and consumate the installation of farmer beneficies from the awarded / CLOAd landholding of Danilo Valderrama located in Brgy. Libertad, Banate, and;
Finally, we also call on the Department of Agrarian Reform to scrap DAR Memorandum No. 09-01804 and stick to its Constitutional mandate of continuing CARP until all agricultural lands are distributed.
11 February 2009
Day 2
Before starting their walk this morning, the farmers of PASAMAKA heard a mass at 6:30 in the morning with Fr. Parenas of St.John the Baptist church. It was the first time that they heard a mass when they started their long march.
Fr. Parenas inspired the farmers with good hope that at the end of this sacrificial walk, they will endure the pain in their hearts with the Lord’s guidance and blessings. He extend good luck for the success of their campaign for land.
Exactly 7:20 am, the farmers start their walk, heading to Culasi Parish church,with a renewed spirit and carrying the good news and blessings from God.
While taking a short break in Barangay Tipacla, Ajuy town, at least 27 farmers from Association of Farmers of Anabo in Lemery Iloilo have joined the group and start to walk towards Ajuy town proper and stayed their until 12:00 in the afternoon for their lunch.
They arrived at Ajuy proper around lunch time. After eating their lunch, they took a short rest, before continuing their long march.
12 February 2009
Day 2 (update)
PASAMAKA peasants arrived at the 2nd point of stopover for the night in Culasi, Ajuy parochial church at exactly 3:21 pm and welcomed by the admin staff of the chapel and Father Amador Ingkanto.
During the night, the group had their sharing sessions with Fr. Ingkanto on what they are feeling about their journey. Some women shed tears for they’re longing for their children that they left in the island. But they said, it’s alright for the meantime because they are doing this sacrifice for their family.
Cerila Vasquez of Loguingot farmers and fishefolks association in Estancia said that even if their feet are already swollen, their moral and dignity were still boosted and strong especially that the church people is helping them all through out. They’re also delighted that even the bystanders and local people they passed by along the way, is supporting their cause. Some are giving them food and water to drink.
Peasant leader Concha Eldore of Paon agrarian reform organization, once recall their story in 1989 when they had a fight with Albert Requinto, landowner of Paon Estancia saying that they (farmers) are not capable to fight for his land because they do not even have fare for a ride going to Iloilo city to file the case. Ka Concha angrily replied to the landowner, “It’s alright, we can manage to walk from Estancia to Iloilo city proper!”
Ka Concha tearfully said they don’t expect that it will come true after 20 years of their fight for land.
12 February 2009
Day 3 Update: way to Banate, Iloilo
After a heartwarming sharing the other night, PASAMAKA peasants leaved Culasi parish church around 7:58 am with the convoy provided by the 608th provincial mobile force PNP based in Sara Iloilo.
Equipped with food and water that Fr. Ingkanto gave them, the peasants started their walk and endure the very hot weather heading to Barotac Viejo.
At 11:36 pm, the group takes a break for their lunch on a hill top forest. Some took a short nap after eating lunch to gain strength for the next round of kilometers to walk.
The group arrived at 4:38 pm in Banate town and greet by Parish Priest Fr. Wenie Lusaria of Saint John the Baptist church and some residents of Banate.
Fr. Lusaria, together with the residents and some religious organization in Banate welcomed PASAMAKA farmers with feast-like celebration in bringing foods and drink for the marchers. After dinner, the devotees of the church ad local residents had distributed pillows, blanket and medicines for the farmers.
Some of the old farmers joining the long march have experienced muscle and joint pains due to long walk and cold weather in the area because that night, scattered rainshowers and isolated thundrestorms and cold winds are affecting over Central and Eastern Visayas area.
Because of weakening conditions of some old peasants joining the ranks, some are saying “maybe it’s time for us to stop this?” But many of them are strong and determined that they should continue the fight to finally end their agony in the hands of SIDECO and landowners.
“Kailangan nating gisingin ang binging gobyerno at maiparating sa kanila ang tunay na kalagayan nating mga mahihirap na magbubukid. Kung kinakailangang hanggang maynila ay sumunod tayo sa paglalakad sa mga naroroon ng magsasaka ay gagawin natin makamit lang natin ang hustisya na ipinagkait sa atin sa mahabang panahon.” Ka Concha said.
At the end of the night, PASAMAKA farmers agreed that they should continue their journey for the sake of their family and have to be strong to gain justice they’re longing for.
February 13, 2009
Day 4: February 14, 2009 Saturday
Around 7:20 in the morning, the farmers took their breakfast in Banate and after eating, a short program was organized by PROGRESO to extend their deepest thanks to the personnel and staff of the church.
The farmers from PATANOM, a farmer/ peasant organization in Banate also shares some encouraging words that moved the marchers to continue their fight and the best weapon in attaining justice and peace as of this time is prayer and faith to God.
Exactly 8:31 am, PASAMAKA farmers left Banate area heading to Barotac Nuevo for the fourth day of the exodus march. The weather is partly cloudy, and expecting a little rainshower from time to time.
Despite of the heavy down pour of rain, the people decided to continue walking and still intact with their line. Some passersby calling them to stop for a while but the farmers said “No! We can’t stop just because it’s raining.” Some residents give plastics and towel to old farmers.
While approaching the fourth stop over- the barotac Nuevo, strong rains welcomed the marchers that result to faint of two old women, Zenaida Suya 53 years old of Asao Farmers Association and Susana Serafino 64 years old of Sicogon. Immediately, they were aided by medic volunteers in the area.
At 3:26 in the afternoon, the tired, hungry and wet farmers of PASAMAKA finally arrived at the fourth stop over in Saint Paul school of Barotac Nuevo still under heavy rainfall. The nun administrator immediately gives instruction to her staff to help and accommodate the needs of our farmers, medicines, towel, clothing, food and some beddings.
BACKGROUND
Last December 10, 2008, some one-hundred (100) peasant-families from Sicogon [2] voluntarily evacuated and left the island to seek refuge and protection from the government. These families are displaced farmers of the 809-hectare property of the Sicogon Development Corporation (SIDECO), and are members of the Federation of Sicogon Fisherfolk and Farmers Association (FESSIFA) [3]. Their ordeals and suffering commenced when the farmers petitioned SIDECO property to be covered under the government’s Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and when they opposed the ’SICOGON ISLAND RESORT COMPLEX’[4] proposed by SIDECO.
The farmers’ “exodus” was prompted when the armed-men of SIDECO declared “HUWES DE KUTSIYO”[5] and commenced terrorizing the communities.
For the last quarter of 2008, amidst the initiative of the peasant sector to campaign for the extension of CARP, several number of human-rights violation cases were registered in the island of Sicogon:
1. On November 22-23, 2008, the training center of FESIFFA was destroyed by the hired goons of SIDECO headed by Ian Sarrosa. Plants were uprooted. A shanty of one farmer was also destroyed by fire.
2. On November 24, the house of Amelia dela Cruz, Vice-President of FESIFFA, was demolished by the armed-men of SIDECO.
3. On November 26, 2008, Thelma Padios, 62 years old, was brutally murdered. She was gathering a cogon-grass when she was attacked by the perpetrator who was later on intercepted by the local fishermen of the municipality of Conception which was turned over to the local police and later on turned over to PNP in Carles. However, it was believed that the assassin was not alone when Thelma was murdered because there are still unidentified men roaming on the island.
During the same period, another farmer-beneficiary was killed in barangay Libertad, Banate, Iloilo, in the person on Jose "Muting’ Banca. Muting was only 32 years-old when he was killed by an armed-men identified as workers of Hacienda Valderrama. Muting was an active member of the PASAMAKA, a peasant organization campaigning for the installation of some 34-CLOA holders in the 99-hectare property of Danilo Valderrama .
In January 2009, SIDECO issued an ’Eviction Notice’ to the island dwellers. The people were only given 15 days to vacate their areas. When the island-dwellers refused to leave, two (2) more houses were demolished. Unfortunately, the government agencies were reluctant to intervene.
As of this day, the private army of SIDECO has continued terrorizing the island-dwellers. Farmers are no longer allowed to enter into their farm-lots to perform their farming activities.
In this light, we call on the government to please intervene and listen to our appeal:
– Immediate provision of food, water, medical assistance and protection to the displaced farmers and their families;
– Provision of lawyers and Para-legal experts who may be able to defend them in court and work towards the dismissal of their case;
– Disarm, disband and prosecute all armed goons of SIDECO;
– Assist the safe return of affected farmers and their families to their homes in Sicogon island and ensure their personal security and the protection of their human rights, so they are able to continue with work without undue fear or interference from SIDECO and its private army;
– Reparation for the families affected by the displacement;
– DAR-PNP assisted harvest, re-deployment of PNP for the re-establishment of detachment and consumate the installation of farmer beneficies from the awarded / CLOAd landholding of Danilo Valderrama located in Brgy. Libertad, Banate, and;
Finally, we also call on the Department of Agrarian Reform to scrap DAR Memorandum No. 09-01804 and stick to its Constitutional mandate of continuing CARP until all agricultural lands are distributed.
15 February 2009
Day 5: February 15, 2009, Sunday
“Pouring rain, Pouring graces”
Still, heavy rainfall was affecting Eastern Visayas including Iloilo but this did not hamper the exodus march of strong PASAMAKA farmers on their fifth day of sacrificial walk for land.
The rain was still pouring hard when they left Barotac Nuevo heading to Leganes town.
Instead of complaining about their already swollen fingernails and aching muscles, the 145 farmers were very happy upon seeing moral support from their kababayan’s while on the road.
Some motorists honk their vehicles as a sign of support while some are giving bread, radish, fruits, bibingka, sweet potatoes, and bananas.
Even a little boy, a 3rd grader, has been touched by the hapless story of the marching farmers. When he heard that they are in need of food and temporary shelter, he immediately buy his earnings from selling candy, a “gatang” of rice and half kilo of bihon. He went to the parish church with her mother where the farmers are hearing a mass from Fr. Wenie. The boy handed to Fr. weenie what he bought for the farmers and say,“pasensya na po, kaunti lang ito, makatulong man lang sa kanila.”
Also, a lady vendor of rice cake in town did not hesitate to give all her rice cake to the marchers as a sign of her support to them. The facilitators also got a free ride from the bus when bus driver learned that they are with the exodus marchers.
Exactly 4 pm, PASAMAKA farmers reached Leganes town and welcomed by the Parish Priest of Leganes church carrying all their belongings soaked with water from all day heavy rainfall in the area.
Having witnessed and felt the overwhelming support by the people, the farmers remain hopeful and persistent in their commitment to proceed to Iloilo city from their fifth day of walk for land.
The farmers stayed the night at the Leganes parish church.
16 February 2009
The News Today
February 17, 2009
Iloilo city
Sicogon farmers gain support from militant groups
Members of the militant Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) – Panay here expressed support to the struggle for land of the displaced families in Sicogon Island, Carles, Illoilo.
In a statement, Bayan-Panay condemned the displacement of hundreds of families in Sicogon Island just to give way to the entry of the Sicogon Development Corporation (Sideco).
According to Edgar Pelayo, Secretary General of Bayan-Panay and Regional Council member of the Paghugpong sang Mangunguma sa Panay kag Guimaras (Pamanggas), the plight of the farmers and the affected families of Sicogon is a picture of the national government’s utter neglect of the interest of the people in favour of those private businesses and corporations.
“We express our full support to the struggle of the people of Sicogon for their land. Even if they were already displaced from their land, we believe that their strong will to go back to their homes will further inspire them to continue their fight,” added Pelayo.
The displaced families of Sicogon marked their protest action with a march from the town of Carles last February 10 going to the Iloilo Provincial Capitol. The long march, set to end on February 13, signalled their strong resolve to bring back their land which was taken by Sideco since 2007. The protesters declared that they were already in Sicogon Island way before Sideco entered the area in 1978. They also hope that the Iloilo provincial government will intervene to assist them in their struggle.
“This experience of the Sicogon people shows the very flaw of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (Carp). The national government spent P150B for its implementation for over 20 years but failed to resolve the peasants’ struggle for land. So long as Carp implementation is within the framework of an economy that is export-oriented and import-dependent and that vast tracts of land continue remain in the hands of only a few, our peasants and farmers will never have a land of their own to till. That is why, BAYAN is not in favor of Carp extension. We are for the passage of House Bill.”
Day 6: February 16, 2009: “The Last destination”
PASAMAKA farmers were greeted by a great weather on Monday morning. They are also happy that many contingents from different peasants and fisherfolk organization in Iloilo have joined them in walk for land.
Some of the peasants and fisherfolk organizations joined their ranks came from Cano-an Community Farmers Benefiaciary Association (CCFBA),United Peasant Association (LUPA) Federation of Sicogon Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (FESIFFA) Bolo Farmers Association (BFA), Cawayan Farmers and Fisherolks Association, Asao Farmers and Residents Association (AFRA), Loguingot Farmers Association (LOFFA), Pa-on Land Reform Organization (PLRO) and Lanot Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (LAFFA), Tad-y farmer beneficiaries association of San Enrique, Paglaom of Manduawak San Dionisio and KMPC of Banate.
But before leaving Leganes church, Fr. Teves gave them inspirational words in his homily wherein he told the story of Cain and Abel.Fr. Teves reiterated that the blessings of the Lord must be shared to those really needs help. “We should not be jealous to others. Patience must be in our heart always. We have to be generous and forgiveness must be the first priority in having relationship to our fellow. Like these farmers who are in need of our help. We must understand their cause and give all the possible means of helping them.”
The farmers expressed their deepest thanks to Fr. Teves and staff and residents of Leganes town who braced them wholeheartedly.
Around 9:30 am, the group now in the average of 300 peasants started their march heading to their last destination at Saint Pius center in Jaro Cathedral where Monsignor Oso and Archbishop Lagdameo is waiting for them.
While on the road, media from ABS-CBN, GMA 7, Bombo Radyo, Panay news and many others have joined the ranks and interviewed the farmers while walking.
Amelia dela Cruz, leader from Sicogon, proudly told the reporters that they made it coming to the city despite of heavy rains and body pains they’ve encountered since day 1. And happily thanking the public for giving them support while on the road,“This makes us stronger to keep our fight,” Amelia said.
Also, Amelia warned and called on the government to wake up and give attention to their problem. “Kung mananatili silang bingi at bulag sa aming mga problemang idudulog sa kanila dito sa syudad, asahan nila na kami sa Isla ay magsisilutang na bangkay na sa dagat oras na bumalik kami doon na wala man silang ginawang aksyon,” Amelia said.
Boyet Paciente, also a farmer leader was interviewed by Bombo Radyo Iloilo.
When the group happened to pass at the DAR Regional office, three farmers asked water from the guard but immediately the guards closed the gate. The farmers got dismayed and said,“Hindi na nakapagtataka na ganyan sila, ni hindi nga nila kami maharap sa aming mga kaso sa lupa.”
Around lunchtime, the group finally arrived at Jaro plaza, wherein different media institutions, both by broadcast and print, waiting for them and immediately interviewed the farmers.
Panay news lady reporter got pity to Rosalita Mahinay, 63, an old woman from Sicogon who cried so much because she didn’t really expect that she’s now stepping on the city that she’d never seen in her entire life. She’s also happy that they have done this great challenge despite of their age.
Monsignor Oso of Saint Pius welcomed the marchers and brings them to Bishops palace where they prepared a sumptuous dinner for the marchers. Monsignor Oso said it’s better to give them “nilagang baka” for them to bring and gain more strength, “so that the carabaos in the field will be happy that their masters will come back home soon.”
After dinner, The farmers present a simple remembrance for Monsignor Osos and Archbishop Lagdameo – a valentine’s card which the farmers did on valentines day saying their warmth and deepest thanks to the church people for the unquestionable support to their historical exodus walk for land.
Teary eyed, Amelia dela Cruz give thanks to Monsignor Oso and four other priests present in the Bishops palace saying,“Nawa’y madami pa po kayong matulungan na nangangailangan tulad namin, maraming salamat po.”
Monsignor Oso received with big smile the big heart shape thank you card from the farmers and assured them that the church and Archbishop Lagdameo is always open to help the farmer’s cause.
While resting, some members of Jaro massage organizations give their free service to weary farmers and help them eased their aching body that they’ve gained from six days walking.
17 February 20093059 or the Genuine Agrarian Reform Bill filed by Anakpawis Partylist that seeks to address the land problem of our farmers,“addded Pelayo.”We are very willing to extend our help to the Sicogon farmers because we believe that only through a united effort can we deliver a stronger protest against repressive schemes of our national government," ended Pelayo.
17 February 2009
Residents of Sicogon want armed goons disarmed
Manila Times
16 February 2009 | 12:10 AM
ILOILO: Thousands of Sicogon Island residents facing eviction urged the government to restore peace and order in the once popular tourist destination, starting with the dismantling of armed goons terrorizing them, reported Panay News over the weekend.
Now on their fifth day of protest march from Carles town in Northern Iloilo to Iloilo City to dramatize their plight, the islanders said the goons must be disarmed, disbanded and prosecuted.
Sicogon Island is approximately 140 kilometers from Iloilo City. It was an international tourist destination in the 1970s until Boracay Island overshadowed it.
On December 10, 2008, some 100 fearful peasant-families from Sicogon voluntarily left the island. These families are members of the Federation of Sicogon Fisherfolk and Farmers Association (FESSIFA), which petitioned 335 hectares of the Sicogon Development Corp. (SIDECO) property to be covered under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.
Sicogon Island, a part of Carles town, has a total land area of 1,160 hectares. SIDECO, which plans to revitalize the island’s tourism industry, owns about 809 hectares or 70 percent of Sicogon’s total land area.
The marching islanders also appealed for immediate provision of food, water, medical assistance and protection, as well as provision of lawyers and paralegal experts who may be able to defend them in court. They want assistance for the safe return of affected farmers and their families to their homes in Sicogon Island, and their personal security and the protection of their human rights secured so they can continue to live and work without undue fear or interference.
Visayan Daily Star
Owner of Sicogon to sue marchers
FOR LOSS OF FOREIGN INVESTORS
BY CARLA GOMEZ
A Negrense businessman Saturday said he will file criminal and civil suits for damages against those spearheading a march against the alleged displacement and harassment of residents of Sicogon Island in Carles town, Iloilo, saying their claims are lies that have besmirched the reputation of his firm.
They have driven away potential foreign investors interested in reviving the area as a tourism destination, Edgardo Sarrosa, president and chairman of the Sicogon Development Corp., charged.
Sarrosa and his lawyer, Renecio Espiritu, said three out of five foreign investors interested in developing the 1,160-hectare island have pulled out, because of the allegations by the marchers.
The marchers were not displaced from the island and cannot claim a right to the area under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, Sarrosa said.
How can they call their march a walk for land, when they are not entitled to the land they are claiming? Espiritu asked.
Where is their document to show that Sicogon Island is covered by CARP? Espiritu asked.
Sicogon cannot be covered by CARP because in 1977 then President Ferdinand Marcos declared it a priority tourism area, the lawyer said.
In fact President Gloria Arroyo has told us to hurry up with the development of Sicogon so Boracay can be decongested, Sarrosa said.
He charged that a syndicate was maneuvering the illegal take over of the island and instigating the marchers.
The Carles Municipal Agrarian Reform Officer sent a notice of CARP coverage on Sicogon Island to the wrong address and we, in turn, filed a case against the DAR for violating the law and the court issued an injunction on its moves, Espiritu said.
He said the protestors cannot get Sicogon by marching, the law must be followed.
The title to the island remains with Sicogon Development Corp, it has never been foreclosed by the bank, Sarrosa also said. He said they purchased the island from the Arroyo and Lacson families in 1972.
Sarrosa said he is challenging the marchers to a debate before any forum to prove who has the right to the island. He is prepared for a debate before representatives of government, the church, the media and whoever else are interested because he knows he stands on solid ground, Sarrosa said.
Marchers, who have joined the “Iloilo Farmers Walk for Land,” that began Feb. 11 are expected to arrive in Iloilo today and plan an inter-agency dialog tomorrow.
The farmers have accused the Sicogon Development Corp. of forcing them to evacuate from the 1,160-hectare island since December last year to pave the way for the Sicogon Island Resort Complex.
The island with around 4,000 residents was a top tourist destination in the 1970s because of its white beach even before Boracay Island drew world-wide attention.
The Panay Rural Organizing for Reform and Social Order Inc., a non-government organization assisting the farmers, said Sideco only owns 70 percent or 809 hectares of the 1,160-hectare island, while 30 percent or 351 hectares are classified as public or forest land.
It accused Sideco of using its security personnel and hiring armed goons to harass residents opposing the project, a charge Sarrosa has denied, and he said his position is attested to in reports by local government authorities.
There is also no single evidence to show that houses at Sicogon have been destroyed by SIDECO, he said.
The claim of destruction of houses and crops and harassment are all big lies, maliciously made to destroy the goodwill of SIDECO and the plan to revive the multi-billion SIDECO Island COMPLEX Resort and for the groups instigating the protests to gain sympathy and financial support locally and internationally, he said.*CPG
Philippine Star
Trouble in Paradise Island
THE SOUTHERN BEAT
By Rolly Espina Updated February 17, 2009 12:00 AM
For years now, inter island vessels passing by Sicogon Island off Panay could feast their eyes on what used to be a desirable tourist destination. But now, years after, it is the subject of an impending criminal and civil suit.
The reason – thousands of Sicogon Island residents facing eviction are urging the government to resolve peace and order for the once popular tourist destination. And their agitation is for the dismantling of armed goons purportedly terrorizing them. The residents last weekend, on their fifth day of protests, claimed that 100 families voluntarily left Sicogon. They are members of the Sicogon Fisherfolk and Farmers Association (FESSITA). The group reportedly petitioned 335 hectares of the Sicogon Development Corp. (SIDECO) to be covered under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.
But businessman Edgardo Sarrosa, president and chair of the SIDECO said he will file criminal and civil suits against those spearheading a march against their alleged displacement from Sicogon in Carlos town.
Sarrosa’s lawyer, Renecio Espiritu, claimed that five foreign investors interested in developing the 1,160 hectares island had pulled out because of the allegations of the marchers.
Espiritu pointed out that Sicogon cannot be covered by CARP because in 1977 then President Ferdinand E. Marcos declared it a priority tourism area, Espiritu stressed.
President Gloria Arroyo, he contended, even told SIDECO to hurry up the development of Sicogon to help decongest Boracay.
The title of Sicogon Island, Sarrosa pointed out, has not been foreclosed by the bank. He said they purchased the island from the Arroyo and Lacson families in 1972.
Sicogon has an area of 1,160 hectares which was a prime tourist destination in the seventies. It was then the sight for passing boat passengers.
It is made up of three barangays – San Fernando, Alipata and Buaya. It is the town of Carloses.
SIDECO reportedly owns 809 hectares or 70 percent of the total land area of what they used to call Paradise Island.
Last month, the protestors claimed, SIDECO issued them an eviction notice, giving them only 15 days to vacate their areas.
Lirio Cordova, community organizer of Panay Rural Organizing for Reform and Social Order (PROGRESO) said about 4,785 people, mostly farmers and fishermen, face dislocation.
The group also accused SIDECO of hiring armed goons to harass residents opposing the project to re-convert Sicogon into a major tourism destination.
Sarrosa denied the allegations, pointing out that all the claims were maliciously made to destroy the goodwill of SIDECO and the plan to revive the multi-million SIDECO Island Complex Resort.
Somehow, sooner or later, the suit must be filed and the court decides on whether SIDECO or the protesters have the right on Sicogon. Meanwhile, the transformation of the island into another major tourist destination is on hold.
The News Today
February 19,2009
Displaced Sicogon residents hold 120-km march to dramatize plight
By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.
Hundreds of residents and farmers will hold a 120-kilometer march starting today to protest their displacement from an island being revived as a tourism destination.
The farmers and residents of Sicogon Island in Carles town, northeast of here, will hold the six-day march from Carles to Iloilo City, passing 13 towns to dramatize their plight.
The farmers have accused the Sicogon Development Corp. (Sideco) of forcing them to evacuate from the 1,160-hectare island island since December last year to pave the way for the Sicogon Island Resort Complex.
The island with around 4,000 residents was a top tourist destination in the 1970s because of its white beach even before Boracay Island drew world-wide attention.
The Panay Rural Organizing for Reform and Social Order Inc. (Progreso), a non-government organization assisting the farmers, said Sideco only owns 70 percent or 809 hectares of the 1,160-hectare island, while 30 percent or 351 hectares are classified as public or forest land.
It accused Sideco of using its security personnel and hiring armed goons to harass residents opposing the project.
The group has documented cases of houses of leaders of farmers and fisherfolk organizations being destroyed by armed men allegedly hired by Sideco.
Sideco President Edgar Sarrosa denied the allegations.
“These are pure lies,” he said in a telephone interview on Tuesday.
Sarrosa declined to discuss the issue further saying he will just furnish this reporter all documents regarding the issue. He said he also wants to be interviewed with the farmers “so that the truth will be known.”
Progreso executive director Lirio Cordova, said in an e-mailed statement that the displaced farmers have been residents of the island even before 1930.
But Sideco, backed with a land title, claimed ownership of around 809 hectares in the 1970s and built resorts in the coastal area. The residents were relocated to Barangay Buaya and Alipata, two of the island’s three barangays.
Cordova said that in 1994, the Sideco property was placed under Compulsory Acquisition of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program with 200 farmers identified as beneficiaries.
But in 2004, Sideco filed a petition before the Department of Agrarian Reform to exempt the island from CARP on the ground that the island is a tourist zone.
Cordova said residents have also been asked to sign by Sideco of an affidavit of withdrawal as CARP beneficiaries.
This was followed by the filing of ejection cases by Sideco against leaders of the people’s organizations Asosasyon sang Mangunguma kag Mananagat sa San Fernando (Ammasan), Buaya Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (Buffa) and Alipata Small Farmers and Fisherfolks Association (Alisffa).
Security personnel of Sideco have allegedly barred residents from farming and conducting meetings. Cases of illegal possession of firearms, robbery, grave coercion and unlawful detainer were also filed against the claimants by Sideco.
Cordova said the farmers and residents are appealing for the intervention of government agencies for their safe return to the island. They are also appealing for food, water and medical assistance.
The participants to the protest march are expected to arrive in Iloilo City on February 17, where they are set to dialogue with various government agencies.
GMA news.tv
Sicogon island owners, residents reach compromise
02/19/2009 | 09:08 PM
MANILA, Philippines — Majority owners of tourist destination Sicogon Island and local residents have reached a compromise after holding a dialogue at the provincial capitol in Iloilo City.
Online news site The News Today (www.thenewstoday.info) reported the compromise was reached Wednesday noon at a meeting brokered by Msgr. Meliton Oso of the People’s Graftwatch of Iloilo.
Iloilo Governor Niel Tupas attended the meeting, which came a day after some 300 Sicogon residents walked all the way from Carles town, about 120 kilometers north of the city.
The inhabitants started their march Wednesday last week to highlight their alleged eviction from the island to pave the way for foreign investors.
Also, the inhabitants accuse the island’s owner, the Sicogon Development Corporation (Sideco) of harassing them, evicting them from their houses and preventing them from tending to their farms.
Sideco denied the accusations.
Resident Amelia de la Cruz alleged that Sideco’s security guards either burned or destroyed their houses including the fences.
Thelma Bacinillo said Sideco evicted her from her house and confiscated her farm animals and some personal property. Elsa Bulaqueño said Sideco’s guards threatened to shoot her two minor sons.
But Sideco president Edgardo Sarrosa denied all these. He stressed that they had not been harassing the inhabitants, nor forcing them out of their houses.
Oso said the problem between the inhabitants and Sideco hinged mainly on alleged harassment by Sideco’s private security guards; and eviction of some residents from their houses and farms.
Sarrosa said Bacinillo and anybody else claiming to have been displaced can return to their houses and continue possessing the land without fear of being evicted.
He added Bacinillo can have her farm animals back, and assured inhabitants that they will not be harmed by Sideco’s security guards. “Nothing will happen to you,” he said.
The 1,160-hectare island was a top tourist destination in the 1970s. It has its own airstrip and hordes of foreign tourists came to the island during its heydays. - GMANews.TV
Iloilo’s Exodus walk for land in Youtube
’EXODUS walk…click this link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzkv...