Libertad Residents demonstrate Power of Collective Action

Libertad residents bring their sentiments and demands before the Lanao del Norte Provincial Officials

LANAO DEL NORTE. What started as a simple demonstration of the freedom of expression of the people of Brgy. Libertad, Kauswagan, LDN ended with sympathy and support from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during a regular session on May 18.

The demonstration started along the highway of Kauswagan, LDN with local residents displaying their resistance against the coal-fired power plant being constructed between two barangays of Kauswagan, LDN that took away their homes, livelihood and devalued their social rights. Knowing that their Local Government Unit will not hear their pleas for a proper relocation site and a disturbance compensation for the damages done, the displaced residents of said barangay took a two-hour travel to the Provincial Capital of Lanao del Norte to air their request. They were invited inside the regular session.

"If they destroy my home, they, too, will destroy my fishing livelihood", stresses Junwine Edroso, 54, as he shares how he refuses to be relocated. While the others narrate how they helplessly witnessed their houses being mowed down to the grounds, Junwine is one of the few who remained at the construction site of the coal-fired power plant set to take full operation by 2017 under GNPower Ltd. Co. -  a company owned by the Ayala Group of Companies.

Known as one of the dirtiest source of energy and the single biggest source of climate changing pollution, the coal fired power plant in Kauswagan, LDN started its construction in the last quarter of 2014.

Libertad residents proceed to Lanao del Norte Provincial capitol after their short demonstration in their barangay. 

Some affected residents lament how their coconut trees and other fruit bearing trees, their only source of living, were being flattened to the ground and were not given indemnification for the damages done leaving them defenseless.

According to First District Board Member Mohammad Moamar Jack Maruhom and ex-Mayor of Kauswagan, LDN for nine (9) consecutive years, GNPower did not recognize the Sangguniang Panlalawigan since they bypassed their application and failed to attend sessions several times even when they were being summoned. 

 “We have to find a way to take back the ECC [Environmental Compliance Certificate] from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources so we can finally shut down the [coal fired power plant] construction”, said 2nd District Board Member Benny Baguio. 

In an interview, 1st District Board Member Grecille Matalinis shared that her first step is to address the problem of the displaced residents to GNPower since there were agreements not met. When asked about the possibility of the ECC dismissal she gave no comment because it is still on the process of filing a resolution for the dismissal.

Vice Governor Ma. Cristina Navarro Atay discusses possible actions that her office will initiate to address the issues presented by the community. 

Knowing the full support of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the displaced residents of Barangay Libertad, Kauswagan, LDN, no longer fears the manacles of oppression and even decided to form an organization to strengthen their resolve and a stronger chance of being heard through their collective action. They won the day but their battle continues.

By: PrinsipeTibak 
CoRe Movement

***the story of coal-resistance of residents in Kauswagan is a story in progress.