Residents of Barangay Cogon, Gubat, Sorsogon are again facing harassment and intimidation. They have been fighting against the land-grabbing of Rep. Wilberto Lee, a party-list representative.

On November 7, at 2 p.m., three security personnel claiming to be from Banco De Oro (BDO) destroyed the remaining fence of the communal farm of the residents. The fence was first destroyed by personnel of Lee’s company, LKY, on October 31.

Two of the security personnel, identified as Rafael Hemedia alias “Paeng” and Totoy Palicarpio, were armed with long firearms, while a third had his face covered. “Paeng” said their operation was sanctioned by the Gubat police and even by its police chief.

The residents filed a complaint with the barangay council regarding the incident.

The land being grabbed by the companies is part of the “salvage zone” of the sea and is 30 meters away from the shoreline. Residents said they have the right to protect the land because they are the ones who planted and nurtured the coconut trees.

They claim that BDO and LKY have no right to claim ownership of the land. BDO is owned by the wealthy Sy family, who also owns SM malls.

The Save Gubat Bay Movement is calling for a thorough investigation into the link between LKY Corporation and BDO in reclamation projects in Sorsogon City, and the incidents of harassment committed by the said companies’ personnel against Gubat fisherfolk. They also demand protection for the rights of local communities against the destructive actions and interests of the powerful.

They also call to hold the harassment perpetrators accountable and for the fisherfolk’s protection in their own land and livelihood.