BMFI

Dec. 16 update:
Farmers hopeful President Arroyo will decide in their favor

Despite the disappointing order of Secretary Pangandaman issued last December 12, and the counter propaganda against the Sumilao farmers, they remained consistent with their peaceful means of struggle. To express their indignation against the order, they had a sit dofwn rally (which prevented the employees of DAR to get into their offices), a noise barrage, candle lighting, and continuous sharing to the students who visited them in their encampment.

Yesterday (December 15), the farmers had a general assembly where they talked about their concern for their families they left in Sumilao, Bukidnon. Like them, their families at home also feel the fear that their case will not be resolved soon. And like them, their families and the rest of the members of MAPALAD and SALFA also feel angry and frustrated with Secretary Pangandaman's order. The said order was far from what they expected.

They also talked about what will happen tomorrow (December 17) when they will have a dialogue with President Arroyo. Although they are not certain of President Arroyo's commitment to resolve their case in their favor, they remain hopeful that she will take time to really listen and base her decision on the facts and law.

At 10 a.m., students from the Ateneo de Manila had an exposure with the farmers. They took pictures of the farmers and tried to capture the exhaustion, frustration, and also the bravery and strength of the farmers in embarking on their long journey to Malacañang to demand from the government to give back their land.

At 2 p.m., the farmers attended a mass celebrated by Bishop Pabillo and Fr. Robert Reyes.

The urban poor apostolate of the Claretian Missionaries visited and spent time with the farmers. And a religious organization, Simbahan Lingkod ng Bayan, made their Christmas party more meaningful and relevant by spending it together with the farmers.

To help ease the burden of the farmers, the Jesuit brothers and a psychologist facilitated a short reflection. The farmers were divided into seven groups. They reflected on what gave them the strength that made them survive their walk, and their stay in DAR. They also reflected on the grace they had received as well as their wish for the Christmas.

Their day ended with the Christmas caroling offered by the Ateneo Christian Life Community.

Early this morning (December 16), the farmers attended the first mass of the traditional “misa de gallo,” which also happened to be the third Sunday of Advent. Fr. Eduardo Apungan, CMF, celebrated the mass. Fr. Apungan boosted the morale of the farmers by reminding them of their significance in social progress, and that they should constantly remain hopeful.

There was also a team leaders' pool meeting in preparation for tomorrow's expected dialogue with President Arroyo.