Mindoro Farmers Unite in Prayerful Protest Against Fence Blocking Access to Farms and Homes

Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro – Over 300 families in Barangay Guinobatan are facing a desperate situation as a fence is being erected on disputed land, effectively blocking their access to their farms and homes. In a powerful display of unity and faith, residents held a prayer rally Friday night to voice their opposition and plead for a resolution that protects their livelihoods and homes.

The disputed land has been a source of contention for years, with farmers claiming ancestral rights and long-standing use of the area for agricultural purposes. The construction of the fence, reportedly initiated by a private entity, has ignited fears of forced eviction and the loss of their primary source of income. Many of these families rely on farming for their daily sustenance, and the prospect of losing access to their land is devastating.

“We are not against development, but we are against injustice,” declared a community leader during the rally. “This land is our life. It's where we farm, where we raise our families. We are praying for a peaceful and fair resolution that respects our rights and protects our homes.”

The prayer rally drew a large crowd of concerned residents, who gathered under the evening sky to offer prayers, sing hymns, and express their solidarity. Local leaders and advocates for farmers’ rights were also present, offering support and promising to escalate the issue to higher authorities.

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by many rural communities in the Philippines, where land disputes and the threat of displacement are common occurrences. The farmers of Guinobatan are determined to stand their ground and fight for their rights, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and legal processes in resolving the conflict.

Authorities are now under pressure to intervene and mediate between the farmers and the entity building the fence. The community hopes for a swift and just resolution that allows them to continue their farming activities and maintain their homes without fear of eviction. The incident has brought renewed attention to the need for secure land tenure and the protection of farmers’ rights in Oriental Mindoro and across the nation.

The rally served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and faith of the Filipino people, and their unwavering commitment to defending their homes and livelihoods. As the situation unfolds, the community remains hopeful for a peaceful and equitable outcome.