Watch Al Jazeera's coverage of the Sumilao farmers' case on YouTube

Watch the Sumilao farmers' march to Malacañang on YouTube!

March 29 update:
Sumilao farmers claim 144 hectares; signs MOA with SMC
The series of negotiations between the Sumilao farmers and San Miguel Corporation ends today in the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement which gives the farmers a total of 144 hectares of land in Sumilao, Bukidnon. Under the agreement, the farmers will gain 50 hectares within the contested 144-hectare property through a deed of donation by San Miguel Corporation whiile the remaining 94 hectares will be taken from properties outside but within the vicinity of the contested area. The 94 hectares will be distributed to the Sumilao through the Voluntary Offer for Sale (VOS) scheme under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.

The Walk ends, The March towards Social Justice proceeds
Manifesto of the Sumilao Farmers
San Carlos Seminary, Makati City
29 March 2008

March 4 update:
MARTSA Sumilao: Farmers meets with Cardinal Rosales
The Holy Spirit Sisters visited the Sumilao farmers yesterday and gave them food for dinner. At 8 a.m. today, they walked from CARITAS to Arzobispado in Intramuros, Manila to meet with Cardinal Rosales. They were escorted by policemen while on their way to the Arzobispado.

March 3 update:
MARTSA Sumilao: Vigil at the CARITAS Center
Today (March 3), the Sumilao farmers are holding a vigil at their camp at CARITAS Center, Pandacan, Manila. They will have a community prayer every hour until midnight. Tomorrow morning, they will march to the Arzobispado for an audience with Cardinal Rosales.

Feb. 28 update:
Sumilao farmers back again!
The Sumilao farmers composed of Mapadayunong Panaghiusa sa Lumad Alang sa Damlag (MAPALAD) and  San Vicente Landless Farmers Association (SALFA), who walked from San Vicente, Sumilao, Bukidnon to Manila for 70 days starting October 10, 2007 to fight for the land which rightfully belongs to them, are back! A total of 144 Sumilao farmers will go to Manila tomorrow (February 28, 2008) to personally deliver their demands from the commitment that PGMA has given to them, i.e., the 144-hectare land in Sumilao.

Feb. 5-7 updates:
February 5-7: Spending Ash Wednesday in Manila
At UP Manila, a forum was organized by BIGKIS UP Manila, a group composed of medical students. Said forum was attended by medical and arts and sciences students of UP Manila. To make the presentation more interesting, the Correspondents' (of ABS-CBN) coverage of the Sumilao farmers' walk was shown. Selected video footages by Peter Bergado and Kim Quilinguing, which were uploaded on Youtube, were also shown.

Feb. 1-4 updates:
Remembering Atty. Bobby & Atty. Caloy
"Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God," thus quoted Fr. Jun Cabansag during a special mass held last February 1 (Friday) to remember the life lived by Atty. Bobby Gana and Atty. Caloy Ollado. Bobby and Caloy were the lawyers who generously helped the Sumilao farmers ten years ago. Incidentally, Fr. Jun at the time was the student of Bobby on Social Justice Advocacy at the Ateneo de Manila.

Jan. 31 update:
Balay Mindanao Group of NGOs and Sumilao farmers to commemorate 10th year death anniversary of two MAPALAD lawyers
The Balay Mindanaw Group of NGOs (BMG) and the Sumilao farmers shall commemorate the 10th year death anniversary of two lawyers -- Bobby Gana and Caloy Ollado -- who selflessly gave their lives for the MAPALAD farmers who have been deprived of their 144 hectares of land.

Jan. 29 update:
Passing by Mendiola
The Sumilao farmers slept at Sta. Isabel College last night. But before they rested for the night, a short program was conducted. It was organized by Marillac Grantis, a group of working scholars.

Jan. 28 update:
41 days later … farmers wary on OP’s silence
Today (January 28) marks the 41st day after the Office of the President issued its order on 18 December 2008, which reverted the 144 hectares of land in Sumilao, Bukidnon to agricultural land.  With the lapse of time, the farmers have grown wary about the silence of the Office of the President, which is further aggravated by the public statements of SMFI attacking the revocation order of the OP.

Sumilao farmers call on the Office of the President to defend December 18 Order
The Sumilao farmers have grown wary about the public statements of SMFI on the Sumilao land case and the silence of the Office of the President. SMFI has issued a statement today attacking the December 18 revocation order of the Office of the President. On December 26, 2007 SMFI came out with a paid ad that announced its intent to begin the hog farm operations in January 2008 in violation of the order of the Office of the President.

Jan. 23 update:
Sumilao farmers hold vigil in support of CARP reform and extension
The Sumilao farmers momentarily put a hold on their walk to school campuses and parishes around Metro Manila today to hold a vigil in front of the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center where the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is holding its plenary assembly. A representative of the Sumilao farmers was invited to speak in the session of the bishops yesterday. The Sumilao farmers said that they were inspired and encouraged by the Catholic bishops who last year issued a pastoral statement on The Dignity of the Rural Poor.

Jan. 22 update:
Sumilao farmers speak before Catholic Bishops
The Sumilao farmers marched from the University of Santo Tomas early morning today to speak before the gathering of Catholic Bishops at the Pope Pius  XII in Manila. Early morning today, the Sumilao farmers joined other agrarian reform advocates from KILOS-AR in commemoration of the 21st anniversary of the Mendiola massacre.

Jan. 17 update:
Sumilao farmers return to Manila
Exactly one month to the day of their meeting with the President that led to the issuance of the revocation of the conversion order of the 144-hectare property in Sumilao, Bukidnon, the Sumilao farmers are back in Manila. This first  group of  twelve farmers is composed of those who participated in the hunger strike 10 years ago and those who participated in the 1,700-kilometer walk from Sumilao to Manila. Among them are Rene Peñas and Linda San-ahan, who participated in both protest actions.

Jan. 14 update:
Malaybalay, Bukidnon Bishop issues 
Pastoral Letter in Support of the Sumilao farmers
Amidst the apparent inaction of government to pursue the distribution of the 144-hectare Sumilao land to the protesting farmers, Malaybalay, Bukidnon Bishop Honesto Pacana issued a pastoral letter to his Diocese expressing his support for the cause of the Sumilao farmers.

Jan. 14 update:
Return Sumilao estate to farmers, urge 2 bishops
A report from the Inquirer:  Two Catholic Church prelates who visited on Friday the 144-hectare land being claimed by farmers in Sumilao, Bukidnon, said despite the hog farm being constructed on the disputed property, the land should be returned to its rightful owners, the farmers.

Jan. 14 update:
Pangandaman fears Sumilao case to drag on
PhilStar's Edith Regalado reports: Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Nasser Pangandaman expressed fear that the controversial Sumilao farmers case will drag on after San Miguel Foods Inc. (SMFI) filed a motion for reconsideration in anticipation of the cease-and-desist order President Arroyo is expected to issue.

Jan. 11 update:
Sumilao farmers dare Pres. Arroyo to visit them 
SUMILAO, Bukidnon (MindaNews) – An irate woman farmer who joined the long walk from here to Malacanang in Manila dared President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to visit the controversial farm here. "Maybe its time for the President to be the one to come to us?" Linda Ligmon, one of the Sumilao farmers who walked to Manila, told the general assembly of the group here Friday.

Jan. 10 update:
Head of Church Task Force on Sumilao disappointed in dialogue with PGMA
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Bishop Broderick Pabillo, head of the National Secretariat for Social Action (NASSA), and Cagayan de Oro Archbishop Antonio Ledesma were disappointed when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said that she cannot issue a cease and desist order because she still has to refer the case of the Sumilao farmers to Presidential Legal Adviser Sergio Apostol.

Jan. 9 update:
Bishop Pabillo to visit Sumilao farmers
Bishop Broderick Pabillo, head of the National Secretariat for Social Action (NASSA), will arrive tomorrow around 6:30 a.m. at the Cagayan de Oro airport. Bishop Pabillo's visit is part of the commitment of the Catholic Church in helping the Sumilao farmers win their case after the Office of the President reverted the controversial 144 hectares as agricultural land through its 18 December 2007 decision.

Jan. 9 update:
Wary of government inaction, Task Force Sumilao prepares to launch Simultaneous Actions
The Sumilao farmers, who have been holding a camp out at the DAR Regional Office in Cagayan de Oro since January 3, 2008, have grown wary of the lack of action from the Department of Agrarian Reform and the Office of the President.

Jan. 5 update:
DAR Refuses to Issue Notice of Coverage and Cease and Desist Order
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – To protest the refusal of DAR to issue a notice of coverage and cease and desist order, the farmers camped at the office of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Macanhan, Cagayan de Oro City.

Jan. 3 update:
Sumilao farmers ask DAR to issue 
Notice of Coverage and Cease and Desist Order
Sixteen days after the Office of the President issued an Order revoking the Conversion Order of the 144-hectare land in Sumilao, Bukidnon, the Sumilao farmers will go to the Regional Office of the DAR X to ask for the issuance of the Notice of Coverage.

Dec. 27 update:
What is the price of Justice? Sumilao farmers ask
SUMILAO, Bukidnon -- After a brief respite after arriving home for the Christmas holidays, the Sumilao farmers were once again roused to the heat of the controversy over the Sumilao lands by the full-page ad placed by San Miguel Foods Inc. (SMFI) in the major national newspapers. The full-page advertisement enumerated the benefits that the operations of SMFI will offer to the province of Bukidnon and its people while questioning the legal standing of the Sumilao farmers over the disputed land.

Dec. 23 update:
Sumilao farmers back in their homecourt
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Sumilao farmers arrived in Cagayan de Oro at around 7:30 am today on-board a C130 plane from Villamor airbase. Cagayan de Oro was the Sumilao farmers' first stop in their 1,700 kilometer walk from Sumilao, Bukidnon to Manila which started last 10 October 2007. It was during their walk between Sumilao and Cagayan de Oro when they received the news that the Office of the President dismissed their petition for cancellation and/or revocation of the conversion order.

Dec. 21 update
Letter of Malaybalay Bishop Honesto Pacana to President Arroyo
Bishop Pacana, in her letter to the President, expresses his worries over the Malacañang order. For one, he is concerned why no cease-and-desist order was issued against San Miguel Foods, Inc. to stop further activities at the contested 144-hectare land. 

Dec. 20 update:
Meeting with the Bishops
This morning, accompanied by the support groups, the farmers walked from DAR to Paco Catholic School around 4:40 am to meet with Cardinal Rosales and other bishops. They arrived in Paco around 7:30 am. While waiting for Cardinal Rosales, the farmers were served breakfast. Thereafter, a short program followed. Bro. Javier, Samuel Merida Jr., Linda Ligmon, and Atty. Marlon were invited to speak and gave an update on the case. They also shared how the farmers felt with the order of the Office of the President, and their plans.

Dec. 18 update
Malacañang restores Sumilao land for agricultural use, but farmers not celebrating
Malacañang today ordered that the controversial 144-hectare land in Sumilao be restored for agricultural use, thus cancelling the earlier conversion order exempting it from the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. But Sumilao farmers, it seems, are not yet celebrating, and vowed to continue their struggle until they are finally occupying the land. In a statement, they said they “remain disturbed” because it is still a long way before they will actually get the land, especially with Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman, whom they said has shown bias against the farmers.

Dec. 17 update: Sumilao farmers meet President Arroyo

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 down 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.

Dec. 16 position paper:
Petitioners are real parties in interest in the Petition for Cancellation And/Or Revocation of The Conversion Order

Dec. 14 update:
Farmers protest Sec. Pangandaman's order
Today (Dec. 14), the farmers had a “sit down rally,” again in protest of the one sided order of Pangandaman issued last Dec. 12. The farmers, joined by the other peoples’ organizations like UPAL, SAMBA, UNORKA, and other peasant groups, sit in the entrance and exit gates of the DAR. This morning, the police, army and security guards attempted to disperse the farmers. Rep. Risa Hontiveros helped in negotiating with the police not to disperse the farmers. Fortunately, they were not dispersed.

Position Paper of the Sumilao Farmers
This case is simple and ought to have been resolved a long time ago. The law is clear and the facts have been determined—and put into Memorandum- by none other than the DAR officials mandated to do so.   Indeed, this is very much a case about due process and social justice as it is a case of application of the black letter of the law.  And, on all counts, the law, its precepts, and rationale tilt in favor of the farmers of Sumilao, Bukidnon.

Dec. 13 update:
Sumilao farmers get former DAR chiefs' backing
Three former agrarian reform secretaries have thrown in their support to the Sumilao farmers, urging the current leadership of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) for an "immediate revocation" of the land conversion order issued by former Executive Secretary Ruben Torres over a decade ago. Former agrarian reform secretaries Ernesto Garilao (1993-1998), Florencio Abad (1990), and Jose Marie Ponce (1994) made their announcement in a press conference in front of the DAR central office at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, said a statement from the secretariat of the "Lakaw Sumilao!Walk for Justice!" campaign.

Fr. Joaquin G. Bernas, S.J. on the Sumilao farmers
Academician Fr. Bernas, who also writes a column for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, wrote two articles on the Sumilao case recently -- "What is the DAR secretary waiting for?" last Dec. 10, and "Sumilao: Shattered dreams, broken pledges" on Dec. 3.

Dec. 11 update:
Commemorating Human Rights Day
There were two important events yesterday. First is the International Human Rights Day, and second is the deadline of the submission of the Sumilao farmers’ position paper before the Department of Agrarian Reform. To commemorate the International Human Rights Day, the farmers drafted a Declaration: "Pagpapahayag ng Karapatan ng Magsasakang Sumilao," which they read before the public and different government agencies.

International Human Rights Day Declaration
Ang pagkilala sa karapatan sa lupa ay susi sa pagkamit ng mga batayang karapatang pantao. Sa lupa nakasalalay ang buhay ng uring magsasaka. Lupa ang nagbibigay sa amin ng pagkain, makabuluhang gawain, at pantustos sa lahat ng iba pang bagay na pagmumulan ng buhay na ganap at marangal. Sa lupa nakaugat ang aming pakikibahagi sa lipunan bilang taga-ani ng pagkain ng buong bansa. Mabubuo lamang ang pagkilala sa aming mga karapatang pantao kung igagalang at bibigyang-halaga ang aming karapatan sa lupa at ang lahat ng iba pang karapatang kaugnay nito.

Dec. 7 update:
Sumilao farmers at the House and DAR Central Office
Yesterday (Dec. 6), the Sumilao farmers met with the Committee of Agrarian Reform of the House of Representatives, and had a dialogue with DAR Secretary Nasser Pangandaman. The farmers had an early breakfast in Ateneo. And before embarking their walk to the House of Representatives and DAR Central Office, a Eucharistic celebration was offered, celebrated by Fr. Primitivo Viray, Jr., SJ, Fr. Noel Vasquez, SJ, Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, SJ, and a diocesan priest sent by Bishop Honesto Pacana, SJ from Bukidnon.

Dec. 5 update:
Sumilao farmers at the Senate
At around 11:30 am, the farmers reached the Philippine senate. Upon knowing that the farmers were at the gate of the senate, Senator Aquilino Pimentel, who is himself a Mindawanon, excused himself from their session and talked to the farmers. He expressed his support and even committed to help in whatever way possible for the early resolution of their case. "Dinadama namin ang inyong pakikibaka at kami'y naniniwala sa inyong ipinaglalaban," said Sen. Pimentel. Senator Peter Allan Cayetano also talked to the farmers and expressed the same sentiment and commitment as that of Sen. Pimentel.

Dec. 4 update:
DAR Secretary Pangandaman inspects Sumilao land
DAR Secretary Pangandaman, together with some personnel from DAR Central Office, Region 10 and the province, representatives of the Sumilao farmers, and media persons had an actual ocular inspection of the contested 144 hectares of land in barangay San Vicente, Sumilao in Bukidnon.

Dec. 3 update:
Perfect time for reflection for the Advent Season
Yesterday, the Sumilao farmers spent much of their time on reflection, which was a perfect time because it was the first Sunday of the Advent Season. In Christian tradition, advent is marked by a spirit of expectation, of anticipation, of preparation, of longing.

DAR Sec. Pangandaman to Visit Sumilao, Bukidnon
In view of the decision of the Office of the President to remand the Sumilao farmers' petition for the revocation of the conversion order of the 144-hectare land in Sumilao, and the pressure received by DAR from the Sumilao farmers' peaceful protest and the overwhelming clamor of support from various sectors across the country, DAR Secretary Pangandaman is scheduled to visit Sumilao on December 3, Monday.

Palace remands Sumilao farmers’ land claim to DAR
A Nov. 30 report from the Philippine Daily Inquirer said that "Malacañang has granted the appeal of Higaonon farmers from Sumilao, Bukidnon to have the Department of Agrarian Reform hear their petition to stop the conversion of a disputed land into a hog farm." Click here for the Inquirer story, or here for the PDF file of Malacañang's decision.

Nov. 30 update:
Sumilao Farmers: No Way to GMA Curfew
Yesterday, the country was again alarmed with another display of current administration's political insecurity. The overkill response of the government in having massive arrest of civilians and media people worsened when the President imposed a curfew hour from 12 midnight to 5 a.m. in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, including Laguna where the Sumilao farmers are currently walking.

Nov. 28 update:
Peasant organizations in Quezon join Sumilao farmers in march
The ranks of the Sumilao farmers have grown thicker as they walked from Lucena City to Tiaong. This is because various peasant organizations in Quezon province joined the Sumilao farmers to show their solidarity, and to express to the government that they have the same sentiments as that of the Sumilao farmers. They too want to have a land of their own to till and cultivate.

Appeal for help
We are writing on behalf of a colleague in the development community, Dr. Grace J. Bag-ao or Doc G, who had an accident while serving as the medic of the Sumilao farmers' "Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice."

Nov. 27 update
Even Typhoon Mina Veered Away and Spared the Marchers from Destruction of its Fury
As fate would have it, Typhoon Mina spared the Sumilao farmers from its fury. The Sumilao farmers were in Gumaca, Quezon Province when Typhoon Mina brought massive destruction in areas where it passed. The 26 November 2007 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that Typhoon Mina displaced hundreds of families, triggered power outages, and downed communication lines.

Nov. 25 update:
196 Kilometers Left to Manila
On 23 November 2007, the Sumilao farmers left Sta. Elena at 4 a.m. With an update coming from PAGASA Weather Bureau that Super Typhoon Mina will hit Quezon province, they decided to walk until they reach Gumaca, Quezon. They were supposed to walk until Lopez, Quezon but they have to avoid the chances of being stranded in flooded venues because of the typhoon. The original 32 kilometers for the day turned out to be 52 kilometers. They walked what would have been a two-day march by not stopping in Calauag and Lopez Quezon. In these municipalities, the facilities are not equipped for possible problems like heavy rains and flood. Signal number 2 is up in Quezon province and is expected to raise to signal number 3 by 7 p.m. They walked at a steady yet faster pace – they call this double step. This was not the first time they did this. In some stretch of their Mindanaw, Visayas and Bicol legs, they too had their double step march, to avoid getting caught in bad weather, and to ensure they arrive in their point of destination on time or ahead of time.

Nov. 23 press release:
Sumilao farmers, unstoppable despite Typhoon Mina
The onslaught of typhoon Lando, and now the fiercer threat of typhoon Mina, did not deter the spirit of the embattled Sumilao farmers to proceed with their walk and arrive at Malacañang by December 10. As early as 4 a.m. today, the farmers started to walk from barangay Tabugon, Tagkawayan, Camarines Norte, where they rested last night.

Sumilao farmers now in Quezon
The case of the Sumilao farmers has been running for more than a decade. Ever since, the fight to reclaim the 144-hectare landholding is an impossible battle for the small farmers. Not because they do not have any legal ground or legal personality to raise their issues but because they are against big people holding government posts and some influential tycoons of the country.

Marchers get a visit from Camarines Sur mayor
Mayor  Bayani Velez, of Del Gallego town in Camarines Sur, did not miss to visit the Sumilao farmers, and personally delivered his message to them. The good mayor said that although the people in Del Gallego do not personally know the Sumilao farmers, it does not hinder him and his constituents to give their support. According to Mayor Bayani, personal acquaintance with the person who is a victim of injustice is not necessary to entitle him full protection and support.

Nov. 20 update, Part 2:
Missing Dok G
It was a difficult day for the Sumilao farmers, especially so that their "resident" doctor, Dr. Grace Bag-ao (Dok G), was not around to tend to the marchers who are not feeling well. Dok G had to leave the march because of a broken leg. She was rushed to the hospital in Naga City two days ago after she involuntarily fell on her feet. An operation was strongly advised by the doctor.

Nov. 20 update:
Approaching Quezon Province
Yesterday, 19 November 2007, while the Sumilao farmers were traversing the whole stretch of Balogo, Sapacao to Tara, Sipocot, they encountered challenges and situations that needed their full attention. One of the marchers, Toto Hapayon, and one from the support groups, Dr. Grace Bag-ao, were rushed to the hospital in Naga City.

Nov. 16-17 update:
Naga City Resolution No. 2007-347
The Sumilao farmers traversed a total of 20 kilometers from the Municipality of Bula to Naga City. Again the farmers continued walking despite heavy rains. They were all soaked and wet because their raincoats were already tattered. This hardship did not affect the marchers' determination to reach the day's destination.

Reflection of Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo on Sumilao Walk
This morning my wife, Leni, and I, together with hundreds of other sympathizers, joined the Sumilao Marchers from the Naga City boundary to Plaza Quince Martires. The segment covered around 6 kilometers -- a very short distance compared to the 1,100 kilometers or so covered by the group, which started from Sumilao, Bukidnon. (It did not seem short to me. I was too tired to stay on for the rest of the short program.)

Nov. 16 update
PDCI Supports Sumilao Farmers
Though with only a limited night rest, the Sumilao farmers, together with their support groups, woke up around 3 a.m. and started to get ready for another walk. They left Ligao City at 4:05 a.m. right after their morning exercise and a cup of coffee. As practiced, they likewise offered a prayer and asked for further guidance from the Lord for their whole day walk.

Nov. 15 update
920 Kilometers in 36 Days
At 4:30 a.m. yesterday, the Sumilao farmers started to walk the distance of 22 kilometers from Daraga, Albay to Ligao City. It was a difficult day for them because it rained during their entire walk. Nevertheless, they managed to arrive in Ligao city at around 11:00 a.m. They rested and ate their lunch at St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish, an ancient church built in 1818.

Nov. 12 update, part 2
'Solar Drier'
Yesterday's Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice was a normal journey for the Sumilao farmers, except for rain from time to time. The whole stretch of yesterday's walk from Sorsogon City to Brgy. Putiao, municipality of Pilar covered 37 kilometers. They left Sorsogon City at around 4 a.m. after their morning rituals (stretching, exercise and coffee). The by-standers noticed a different hat of the farmers. Eventually it became a long-running joke when they realized that those were the underwear of the marchers. Most of them brought with them a pair of underwear and they usually wash their dirty clothes including undies at nighttime. They do not have any time to hang their clothes that's why some of them put their underwear on their heads while walking. They call this “solar drier.” They usually do this in their homeland in Sumilao, Bukidnon especially when they have to go farming for days. It is for them a normal practice.

Nov. 12 update
Walk for Sumilao, Walk for the Peasantry
The Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice Campaign carries various issues on the state and implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). It is initiated by the Sumilao farmers primarily to reclaim the 144-hectare landholding in their hometown. Although they have particular calls such as revocation of the conversion order, they are also calling for the extension and reformation of the CARP, and recognition for a need of a Land Use Law, which would redound to the benefit of the whole peasantry across the country.

Nov. 11 update
It's Bicol Express for the Sumilao Farmers
The struggle of the Sumilao farmers in claiming their 144-hectare land has inspired other farmer organizations to continue the struggle of the whole peasantry in the country. Yesterday, the farmers negotiated a stretch of 27 kilometers from the municipality of Matnog to Irosin. While on their way to Irosin, several farmer organizations (SANDIGAN, PAKISAMA, HSAI, PINAGSAMA and SAFSCO) waited for the Sumilao farmers to join their march. It was the first time, after two years, when these organizations come together and organize a collective activity. Having been convened, they felt that they are a great force, and would have louder voice if they are together. Thus, they realized that they should do this kind of collective action more often, especially on issues where they share the same ideals and principles.

Nov. 9 update
Crossing the Rubicon
These are the famous words of Julius Ceasar, the great Roman emperor, when he crossed the Rubicon. Rubicon was the river that Julius Caesar crossed when he marched his armies, in defiance of the Senate, against the armies of General Pompey. His strategy was one of "conquer or die." Once he crossed the river, there was no turning back. So, the phrase "crossing the Rubicon" has become a popular idiom meaning to go past a point of no return. This day also marks the "Crossing of the Rubicon" for the Sumilao farmers when they crossed the San Bernardino Strait from Northern Samar to Matnog, Sorsogon, at 4 in the afternoon.

Nov. 7 update
Sumilao Farmers' Journey in Visayas II
The Sumilao Farmers spent the entire morning for reflection session. They were asked two questions: What is the most striking experience for you in the “Walk for Sumilao Land, Walk for Justice Campaign?” and what is your expectations from the campaign starting tomorrow until we reach Malacañang? From the answers, it can be observed that they seem to read the minds of their fellow marchers.

Watch the Sumilao farmers' march on ABS-CBN
Please watch "The Correspondents" on Tuesday (November 6) at 11 p.m., right after Bandila on ABS-CBN. They will feature the Sumilao farmers’ 1,500-kilometer, 60-day walk from Bukidnon to Malacañang in the struggle to reclaim their 144-hectare land. Blurb from www.abs-cbnnews.com: “Kasama si Correspondent Adrian Ayalin, sundan natin ngayon ang kalbaryo ng mga magsasaka ng Sumilao, Bukidnon, na sa kagustuhang madinig ang kanilang hinaing, ay personal na kakatok sa pintuan ng Malacañang, ano’ng peligro man ang naghihintay sa mahabang daan, buhay man ang kapalit sa paglalakbay.”

Nov. 6 update
What a journey it has been, and the end is not in sight…
It was on 24 October 2007 when the Sumilao Farmers first set their feet in the islands of Visayas. And it was in the municipality of Liloan where they have started the Visayas leg. As to this day, they have negotiated not less than 300 kilometers. Yesterday, they negotiated the 36-kilometer stretch of roads from the municipality of San Jorge to Calbayog City.

Nov. 5 update
The Struggle Continues
On 3 November 2007, the Sumilao Farmers were warmly welcomed and accommodated by the sisters at St. Mary's College of Catbalogan (SMCC). After 26 days of walking, this was the first time that they were able to rest their tired bodies in very comfortable beddings. They spent the night in air-conditioned rooms with complete sleeping accessories. Indeed, sleeping and resting on a soft and comfortable bed is but more than a consolation after their whole, long and tiring day. For their 26th day of walk, they struggled to reach the day's point of destination in Catbalogan with a distance of 47 kilometers. 

Nov. 3 update
Sumilao Farmers in San Juanico Bridge
Half the world was sleeping, half the world was awake. And 60 of those who were awake at 12:30 a.m. at the dawn of All Saints Day, 1 November 2007, were the Sumilao farmers and some support groups. They woke up and left the Redemptorist Church in Tacloban City at 2:00 a.m. to get to their next destination for the day – municipality of Sta. Rita. They journeyed for a total of 34 kilometers.

Letter to the Editor: 2 Nov.  2007
More than Physical Hunger, Sumilao Farmers are in Need of Social Justice
We appreciate Joey Gabieta’s article on page 14 of the Philippine Daily Inquirer on 2 November 2007. The article focused on the ancestral claims of the Higaonon marchers from Sumilao, the pains of their form of struggle, and the tremendous help of support groups in Eastern Visayas such as Palo Archbishop Jose Palma.

Oct. 30-31 update
Appeal from Sen. Gringo Honasan
While the Sumilao farmers were negotiating the roads from the municipality of Tolosa to Tacloban City for 23 kilometers, some Ateneo students were organizing a concert for a cause in Route 26 in Manila – a small feat and humble contribution to the sacrifice of the Sumilao farmers. During the mini-concert, alternative artists gathered and rendered songs primarily dedicated to the Sumilao farmers. Bayang Barrios, Noel Cabangon, Chikoy Pura, Purple Chicken and Bandang Shirley came and through their songs, popularized the struggle of the Sumilao farmers.

Oct. 29 update
While They Were Sleeping
On 29 October 2007, the Sumilao farmers journeyed 37 kilometers from the municipality of Abuyog to Tolosa. The marchers, while on their way to the municipality of Tolosa, Southern Leyte, Elgine “Bajekjek” Merida fainted for the third time. The medical team responded immediately and gave her first aid treatment to regain consciousness. They had to stop for a while because they have to wait for the ambulance that will bring Bajekjek to the hospital. They maximized the stopover to have a little rest.

Oct. 27-28 update
Sworn to Justice 2
Originally, the Sumilao farmers planned to negotiate the roads from the municipality of Silago to Abuyog. But due to some circumstances that happened on the previous day, they decided to devote the whole day for their rest.

Oct. 26 update
Sworn to Justice
Yesterday's journey (26 October 2007) of the Sumilao farmers was the most difficult, tiring and longest of their entire walk, at least for the past 17 days. From St. Bernard to Hinundayan (22 kilometers), to Hinonangan (10 kilometers), and to Silago (17 kilometers), for a total of 42 kilometers, the marchers negotiated the roads of the four municipalities where no houses can be seen but only rain forests. They traveled from 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. In the morning, the weather was very hot and humid. And when the sun started to set, rain began to fall.

Oct. 25 update
Which Way Home?
Yesterday (25 October 2007), the 50 farmers and support groups along with the 80 farmers and youth of Ormoc began walking at around 5:00 a.m. The Ormoc contingent -- which consists of members of Benepisyaryo sa Repormang Mag-uuma sa Ormoc (BRAMO), Kahugpungan sa Mag-uumang Ormocanon (KAMAO), Lao Fisherfolks Organization (LFO) and Systans Sorority -- joined the Sumilao farmers halfway to the municipality of St. Bernard. Father Toto Gempeson, officers and other personnel of DAR in the province of Southern Leyte, and some locals from the municipality of Liloan likewise joined the walk.

Day 15 (Oct. 24) update
Footprints in the Sand: Sumilao Farmers' Footprints from Sumilao to Surigao City
For 14 days, the Sumilao Farmers traveled for a total of 250 kilometers, passing through the provinces of Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte, a number of cities, municipalities and almost 100 barangays. For 14 days, the 54 marchers (now 50) journeyed side by side and along with various support groups and individuals.

Day 14 (Oct. 23) update
Traveling! Sumilao Farmers
As early as 3:15 a.m., the Sumilao farmers together with the support groups, started to set their feet in the roads of Tubod, Taganan, Sison and Surigao City, negotiating a total of 37 kilometers. The weather was good when they started the walk but when they reached Brgy. Bad-as, the sun started to disappear and thick nimbus clouds began to dominate the sky. It was then when the marchers wore their raincoats and went on with their walk.

Day 13 (Oct. 22) update
The Miracle of 5 Loaves and 2 Fishes
When we were young, we learned numerous miracles performed by God – among those were water turned into wine, blind man made to see, stone turned into bread, the leper was healed, and of course the miracle of the five loaves and two fishes where more than 5,000 people gathered to hear the word of God. During that time, the people were hungry but did not bring food with them. A boy came in front and said that he has five loaves and two fishes. The Lord multiplied the loaves and fishes and everyone was fed. Then when everyone was full, there were 12 baskets full of loaves and fishes left.

Oct. 21 update
Rest Heals Not All Wounds
From Tubay, the marchers negotiated 33 kilometers going to Jabonga. The stretch of their route consists of Tubay, Santiago, Curva, Bangonoy and Jabonga. Aside from the early morning rituals, they have been used to their everyday walk. And like in their previous walk, by-standers were waiting for the farmers during the whole stretch of their journey. Simple but touching assistance and support from residents of these areas were still prevalent during the walk.

Oct. 19-20 update
Even the Omnipotent Took Some Rest
God created the heaven and the earth… on the seventh day, he rested. The whole day of the Sumilao Farmers' 10th day of walk was devoted for rest. They spent most of their time to attend to their personal stuff. They stayed at the Sustainable Agriculture Center in Pagdaulan, Ampayon, Butuan City . They washed their dirty clothes and some even managed to have a reflexology session for them to feel better and be ready for yet another days' journey.

March Music: A fundraiser for the Sumilao farmers and the 60-day March for Land
The SALIGAN (Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panligal) and Last Song Syndrome are staging a concert on Oct. 30 in Quezon City. 

The Sumilaor farmers' final Visayas route
If you're from Visayas and want to join the march, or if yuo want to support the farmers, check this out. Revised as of 21 October 2007.

Oct. 18-19 update:
GMA ignores Sumilao farmers in Butuan City
The Sumilao Farmers were happy and lively when they started their 9th day of walk at 4 a.m., negotiating the municipalities of Nasipit and Buenavista, Butuan City and barangays Kinabjangan, Ata-Atahon, Kubi-kubi, Sakol, Agong-ong, Arc Guimariz, Matabao, Tinago, Maab, Mapilan, Abilan, Alubijid, Manlangit, Bancasi, Pinamangkulan, Libertad, Bayanihan, Lapu-Lapu and Tandang Sora with a total of 29 kilometers.

DAY 8 (Oct. 17) UPDATE
Not One Less
17 October 2007, the support groups negotiated three municipalities in the Province of Misamis Oriental – of Magsaysay, Carmen and Nasipit. For a total of 30 kilometers, the Sumilao Farmers under the heat of the sun managed to finish today's course in 15 hours. Before and after the farmers' everyday walk, they are now used to basic daily routines. Before and after the long day walk, it has been the usual practice to wake up at 3 a.m., do their stretching, orientation and cup of coffee. They will settle in a place where they can have some rest, eat their breakfast, morning snacks, lunch, afternoon snacks and dinner. Stretching is done in the morning and upon arrival in their everyday destinations for the purposes of warming up and cooling down.

Sumilao farmers move for reconsideration
With blistered feet, burnt skin, and exhausted energy, the Sumilao farmers reached Butuan City ever committed and with persevering spirit in pursuing their struggle of reclaiming their 144 hectares of land. Their “walk for land and justice” is their best way to express their sentiment and call for the government to urgently distribute 144 hectares under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, after it was invalidly converted from agricultural to agro-industrial by then Executive Secretary Ruben Torres (also known as the "Torres Order") in 1996, thereby upholding the conversion order applied by Norberto Quisumbing Sr. Management Development Corporation (NQSRMDC).

Day 7 (Oct. 16) update
Salute to Candiis Elementary School
On 16 October 2007, the farmers woke up at 3:00 a.m. to conduct their everyday early morning rituals and started to walk at 4:15 a.m. Passing Gingoog City going to the municipality of Magsaysay, the whole stretch of the walk consists of barangays Punong, Anakan, Udyungan, Pangasihan, Talisay, Consuelo, Bonifacio-Aquino, Candiis, Sta. Cruz, and Kibungson. The farmers and their support groups marched for a total of 32 kilometers.

More Day 6 (Oct. 15) update
Sumilao Farmers: Never been stronger and determined
Filled with high spirits because of the inspirations they received from the by-standers and motorists yesterday on their way to Medina, the Sumilao Farmers woke up at 3 a.m., packed and started their daily rituals – stretching, orientation and a cup of coffee. They were once again alive and kicking for another day's walk. Determined to continue their cause of action, as a battalion and at 4:15 a.m., they marched to Gingoog.

The Sumilao farmers on 'World Food Day'
16 October 2007
As the world celebrates the World Food Day today, the Sumilao farmers are still in pain as they continue their seventh day of walk to Malacañang to reclaim their 144 hectares of land. Significantly, the renewed protest of the Sumilao farmers coincided with this year's theme of World Food Day, which is “The Right to Food.”  According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the right to food is a universal right.  It means that every person – woman, man and child – must have access at all times to food, or to means for the procurement of food, that is sufficient in quality, quantity and variety to meet their needs, is free from harmful substances and is acceptable to their culture. 

The Sumilaor farmers' Visayas route
If you're from Visayas and want to join the march, or if yuo want to support the farmers, check this out.

Day 6 update:
Sumilao Marchers reach Gingoog City
GINGOOG CITY -- At noon today, 54 farmers on foot reached St. Rita’s Church at the heart of Gingoog City, after walking for approximately 196 kilometers from Sumilao, Bukidnon. The farmers launched the march to protest the government’s inaction on their claims to agricultural lands in Bukidnon. The march is on its fifth day after it was launched Oct. 10.

Day 5 update:
By-standers' words of encouragement and solidarity filled the marchers' heart
Physically exhausted but still determined to continue displaying their anguish and disgust with the inefficiency of the Department of Agrarian Reform in the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), particularly on their plights, the Sumilao farmers again marked their footprints on the streets of Kinoguitan, Balingoan, Talisayan and Medina. Oct. 14 is the Sumilao farmers' 5th day of march.

Malacañang favors the rich in Sumilao farmers’ case
Once again, in a disappointing display of utter disregard for substantial justice, the Office of the President denied the appeal of the Sumilao farmers on the ground that they allegedly lack legal standing (meaning, that they are not the parties in interest to file said petition or appeal).

More Day 4 update:
MISORET residents welcome, support Sumilao farmers
As early as 3 o'clock in the morning, the clanging of cups and spoons can be heard from the group of marchers as they are taking their early morning coffee, while some are still folding the streamers and mats they used for sleeping at the Jampason Beach Resort (in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental), the place where they slept the night before. Nevertheless, the happy spirit is evident in every person taking part in the long walk as one can hear the cheers in their early morning ritual.

DAY 4 (Oct. 13) UPDATE:
Sumilao farmers log first 100 kms for the 1500-km walk to Malacañang
One hundred kilometers down from the estimated 1,500-km walk to Malacañang, the farmers are on their way to Kinoguitan, Misamis Oriental. By now, they have covered more than 100 kms since their walk from the town of Sumilao in Bukidnon three days ago.

Request for support for the Mapalad farmers
The Mapalad farmers will march from Sumilao in Bukidnon all the way to Malacañang to push their cause and regain the 144 hectares of land granted them under CARP. The march requires logistical and financial resources. The farmers need the following: Medicines, slippers, soaps, malong, caps or hats, towels, water, raincoat, foodstuff, coffee, milk, tea, support vehicle and others. To succeed, the farmers need your support.

A Position Paper on the Sumilao Farmers’ Struggle for Access to their Land
Revoke the Conversion Order! Redistribute the Land under CARP!
Reform and Extend the Agrarian Reform Program! Rationalize Land Use!

The Call of Sumilao Farmers for Justice
Ten years after the controversial 28-day hunger strike that was held simultaneously in front of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) office in Quezon City Circle and in Magsaysay Park in Cagayan de Oro City in 1997, the Sumilao Farmers are yet to reap the empty promises offered through the so-called “Win-Win Solution” by then President Fidel Ramos. 

PESANTEch Through the Years: Empowering Marginalized Sectors, Identities and Communities Through Paralegalism
By Atty. Kaka J. Bag-ao

Beyond Lanuza Bay: The Challenges of CARCANMADCARLANCORTAN-Lanuza Bay Development Alliance
Atty. Jan Perry B. Eugenio writes about the challenges faced by the alliance formed by the LGUs of Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza, Cortez and Tandag in Surigao del Sur in their efforts to protect the marine resources of Lanuza Bay as they are continually under attack by commercial fishing companies.

Consuelo Kills the Talaandig! The MILALITTRA Struggle for Land Rights
Consuelo, the popular restaurant in Cagayan de Oro, seems to be everyone’s good old friend. Unfortunately, it appears that Cagayanons are blinded by the sumptuous choices that Consuelo has to offer. What they do not know is the secret behind Consuelo. Every time Consuelo speaks, Yolanda suffers. When Consuelo utters something, Primo falls. Worst, if Consuelo talks, Petoy expires.

A Victory So Small Yet So Great: The Barangay Madaguing Paralegal Experience
Paralegals in Madaguing, Claveria, Misamis Oriental help farmers to title the lands they have been occupying and tilling for years. Now the barangay has become a model on paralegal formation.