The Amihan National Federation of Peasant Women condemned the brutal demolition of an estimated 300 combined elements of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Air Force (PAF) and demolition teams in an attempt to demolish the houses of more than 600 fisherfolk and residents of Brgy. Patungan, Maragondon, Cavite today, January 13, 2022. Three residents sustained gunshots from the state forces. Witnesses reported to have heard at least 12 gunshots.
“We condemn this ruthless act of the PNP and PAF. Sa gitna ng kinakaharap nating krisis pangkalusugan, inuuna pa ang pagpapalayas sa mga maralitang pamilya sa kanayunan para bigyang-daan ang interes sa negosyo ng mga Virata at Sy. We are calling for an immediate and independent probe on this state violence and hold the perpetrators accountable,” Amihan national chairperson Zenaida Soriano said.
Residents of Brgy. Patungan, have been defending their livelihood and community from business tycoons Virata and Sy who claim ownership over the 600 hectares of land. The Manila Southcoast Development Corp. (MSDC) plans to convert the area into an exclusive beach resort adjacent to Hamilo Coast in Nasugbu, Batangas.
“We urge the local government officials to intervene and serve the interests of the local farmers and fisherfolk in the area. We appeal to the public, land and fishing rights advocates to stand with the residents of Patungan in defending their livelihood and community,” Soriano ended. ###
