Agrarian reform beneficiaries of the land owned by the Yusay heirs in Hacienda Katamsikan, Brgy. Quiwi in Hinigaran, are calling on the officials of the Department of Land Reform and of the provincial government to help them occupy the land the Certificate of Land Ownership Award for which was given to them in 2003 yet.

Veronica Norbe, chairperson of BILOG Association affiliated with the Mapisan Alliance, said at a press conference in Bacolod City yesterday it seems they are now helpless because the hacienda management prevented them from cultivating the land when they attempted to do so early this month.

She claimed that when they camped out in the 31.90-hectare property, the security guards of the Yusay heir harassed them and even fired shots at them. One of their members was earlier reportedly injured.

Norbe said that municipal agrarian reform officer Myra Mercano failed to help them find solutions despite several negotiations held between them and one of heirs, Cham Yusay.

She also denied that their group almost held Mercano hostage when she came to the area on March 14 as reported in the DAILY STAR's March 15 issue.

Rona Rusia, one of the 32 beneficiaries, asked how they can pay their taxes when the management would not allow them to cultivate the land.

Elizabeth Villeta of the Mapisan Alliance said they condemn the actions of the DLR, Philippine National Police and the hacienda management towards the agrarian reform beneficiaries.*NLG

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