SMC's projects in the province may actually be of more benefit to thousands of people in the province, as compared to the 55 farmers who lay claim to the 144 hectares.
If SMC puts up an industrial plant in the 144 hectare land currently under spotlight, they will be able to give jobs to hundreds of people in the community, and will be able to provide a market for the raw goods grown by thousands of local farmers. Wouldn't this be a better alternative than giving the land to 55 families? Imagine, sustained economic development in the region, through a stable market and jobs for thousands.
A thorough study of the case might lead you to this very same conclusion. The Governor of Bukidnon agrees with the industrialization of the Sumilao land.
The 55 Sumilao farmers claim is that Quisumbing, the original owner of the land was given five years to develop the land as an industrial area, and since he was unable to do so, the land should be reintegrated into Agrarian Reform to be distributed to the farmers.
Quisumbing maintained that he could not develop the property, because the Sumilao Farmers' continuous protests hindered him from a proper investment out of fear of the uncertainty of what may happen.
Basic Juris Prudence dictates that if a party is unable to comply with demands of it due to the persistence of another party which may benefit from the failure of the initial party, then the initial party may not be subjected to the original demands placed upon it.
I was graced by a personal interview with the former Assistant Administrator of the now defunct Agricultural Credit Administration, and he shared these views with me. This comes from a man who had dedicated his life to the service of he Filipino farmer. The same views are expressed by Governor Zubiri of Bukidnon. Again as in all my semi critical posts, this is an OPINION. Free Speech right?
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