Dear fellow Iskolar,

Greetings of Peace and Solidarity!

The Cebuano term Pahinungód is the closest Filipino translation of “oblation” or offering of one’s self to a higher cause. The Paskong Pahinungod para sa Sumilao (Alay ng Iskolar ng Bayan para sa mga Magsasaka ng Sumilao) is a movement composed of organizations and individuals of the University of the Philippines in Diliman that aims to support the Sumilao farmers who are currently camping out infront of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) office.

These fifty five Higaonon farmers who marched 1,700 kilometers all the way from Bukidnon to Manila to assert their right to their land are part of those who were awarded a 144 hectare land through the Comprehensive Agrarian Program (CARP), which was before that under the control of the Norberto Quisumbing estate. However, this land was subsequently converted into an agro-industrial estate in 1997. Immediately after, they staged a 28-day hunger-strike infront of the DAR Central office, and the public pressure generated by the outpour of support prompted then President Fidel V. Ramos to issue a 'win-win' solution by awarding 100 hectares to the farmers. The Supreme Court nullified the decision shortly after on the basis of a mere technicality.

Ten years have passed and the farmers' struggle continues. Challenging the order converting these irrigated lands into agro-industrial use, the farmers of Sumilao are still firm in their resolve to get back what is rightfully theirs. Throughout their march, they have been warmly welcomed by various organizations, communities and local government agencies including Ramon Magsaysay Awardee and Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo. Last week, the Ateneo de Manila University community showed their overwhelming support.

However, despite their arrival here in Manila, the Department of Agrarian Reform has not yet decided in favor of the farmers. We need to press the government even further and continue throwing our support to the Sumilao farmers.

We are hoping that in this season of Christmas and amidst the euphoria of the University's Centennial celebrations that we do not forget, as Iskolars para sa Bayan the historic role that we are challenged to play in the fight of the marginalized, powerless and oppressed.

It is in this light that we would like to respectfully request for the following:

* For your organization/dormitory to organize a briefing session on the issue. Volunteers coming from students of U.P. Law and support groups are willing to provide the history and legal background/implications of the case.

* For your organization/dormitory to organize video viewing sessions of "The Correspondents" on the Sumilao issue.

* For your organization/dormitory to host a donation box for the food/toy drive (toys for the Sumilao children back home). Cash donations will also be accepted.

* For your organization/dormitory to encourage groups visits to the Sumilao camp outside DAR.

Individual contributions are also welcome. Should you have questions, please feel free to get in touch with Tin @ 09063347548 or Arianne @ 09178972331.

We hope that U.P., as a community would be able to show its solidarity for this just and peaceful struggle for land.


PASKONG PAHINUNGOD PARA SA SUMILAO
pahinungod4sumilao.multiply.com

first year law student.kid at heart.idealist.optimist (except about myself).hopeless romantic.daydream believer.dreamer.klutz(hehe).


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