By Seven people were injured after the members of the demolition team composed of the elements of the PNP-SWAT and private security of Clarkhills Properties Corporation (CPC) fired shots at the protesters forming a barricade in Balubad, Anunas, Angeles City, Pampanga last March 13.
The residents of Balubad barricaded to prevent the entry of the demolition team and heavy equipment in their community, which for the residents of Balubad, can destroy their land and livelihood. CPC is targeting almost 73 hectares of land to build a subdivision and commercial establishments.
For the residents, they barricaded because the demolition team came without prior notice. This is not the first time that the CPC has attempted to carry out demolition. It can be noted that last February of this year, the CPC also attempted to demolish the area, as well as in September last year.
Aside from the seven who were injured, two members of the media were also attacked by the armed members of the demolition team, where one of them was held, pointed at with a gun, and their equipment was confiscated.
According to Balubad farmers, they have a Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA), and the amortization of the land has been paid. It is feared that almost 2,000 residents will lose their homes and livelihoods when the land will be developed.
Anakbayan condemned the unjust demolition and the grabbing of the land of the farmers. They also called on the youth and people to stand with the residents of Sitio Balubad in defending their land./PT
