Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro – In a powerful display of unity and faith, farmers and residents of Barangay Guinobatan staged a fervent prayer rally on Friday night. Their collective concern centers around the construction of a fence on disputed land, which is severely restricting access to their farms and homes. More than 300 families are facing the looming threat of forced eviction, prompting this urgent and heartfelt response.

The rally, held under the watchful eyes of the community, saw hundreds gather to pray and express their unwavering resolve. The disputed land has been a source of contention for some time, and the sudden erection of the fence has exacerbated the situation, effectively cutting off vital pathways for residents to reach their livelihoods and their residences. Many depend on the land for their sustenance, and the potential loss of access would have devastating consequences.

“This is not just about land; it's about our families, our homes, and our ability to provide for our children,” shared one resident who wished to remain anonymous. “We have lived here for generations, and we will not be easily displaced. We trust in God and in the strength of our community to overcome this challenge.”

The prayer rally was more than just a demonstration of faith; it served as a platform to raise awareness about the plight of the affected families and to appeal to local authorities for intervention. Organizers emphasized the importance of peaceful protest and urged participants to remain calm and respectful throughout the process. They are seeking a resolution that respects the rights of the residents and allows them to continue living and working on the land they have cultivated for so long.

Local officials are now under increasing pressure to address the situation and find a fair and equitable solution. The incident has sparked widespread concern within the province, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by many small farmers and rural communities in the Philippines. The community hopes that through continued dialogue and prayer, a positive outcome can be achieved, ensuring the security and stability of Barangay Guinobatan and its residents.

The residents are also exploring legal avenues to protect their rights and challenge the validity of the claims being made regarding the disputed land. They are actively seeking the support of legal professionals and advocating for a transparent and impartial investigation into the matter. The rally concluded with a renewed commitment to stand together and fight for their homes and their future.

This situation underscores the ongoing need for land reform and the protection of the rights of marginalized communities in the Philippines. The residents of Barangay Guinobatan are determined to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice and a peaceful resolution to this challenging situation.