FridayOL

Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro – Over 300 families in Barangay Guinobatan, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, are facing a critical situation as a newly constructed fence threatens their access to farmlands and homes. In a powerful display of unity and faith, residents held a prayer rally Friday night to voice their opposition and seek divine intervention in resolving the land dispute.

The fence, erected on disputed land, has effectively cut off farmers from their livelihoods and residents from their dwellings. The potential for forced eviction looms large, causing immense anxiety and uncertainty for the affected community. The rally served as a poignant demonstration of their resolve to protect their homes and their means of sustenance.

“We are not against progress, but we are against injustice,” declared a local farmer during the rally. “This land has been our source of income and our home for generations. We have the necessary documents to prove our ownership, and we will not leave without a fight.”

The dispute centers around conflicting claims to the land. While the fence's construction has been initiated, the farmers maintain they possess legal documentation supporting their ownership and long-standing residency. They argue that the fence is an aggressive act that disregards their rights and threatens their way of life.

The prayer rally drew a large crowd, with residents chanting prayers and holding signs expressing their grievances. Local leaders and community organizers were also present, offering support and coordinating efforts to engage with relevant authorities. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of anxiety and determination.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by many Filipino farmers who struggle to secure their land rights in the face of development pressures and competing claims. The community's plea for justice resonates with broader concerns about land ownership and the protection of rural livelihoods.

Authorities are now under mounting pressure to intervene and mediate a resolution to the dispute. The farmers are calling for a transparent and impartial investigation into the land claims and a commitment to upholding the rights of the affected families. They hope that through dialogue and legal processes, a fair and equitable solution can be found, ensuring that they can continue to live and work on the land that has sustained them for generations.

The community remains steadfast in their resolve, relying on their faith and collective strength to navigate this difficult situation. The prayer rally served not only as a protest but also as a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of the farmers of Barangay Guinobatan.