The Philippine Experience

Monday, December 17, 2007

No Solution In Sight For Farmers

In a classic Gloria pa-pogi, she welcomed the farmers in her dramatic way. Word of her illness then a report saying the meeting was not scheduled today. A statement was issued that GMA will meet the farmers at 2PM. She then sent her propagandists to fetch the farmers from San Beda College. To dramatize the event more, Bunye, Remonde and Golez joined the marchers in a mass held in the school after which they escorted the group to Malacañang.

After an hour of dialogue and with Nasser Pangandaman lawyering for San Miguel, the meeting did not resolve anything. GMA was more concerned with sending the farmers home with or without resolving the issue. The Dept. of Agriculture promised irrigation and the DSWD will give food and transportation aid to bring the farmers home. The farmers did not march 1,700kms. to beg for scraps, they marched for justice.

San Miguel has gone on a media blitz. In an apparent bid to "justify" their position, the company has gone on the air and have published full-page ads. Even some business personalities have come out in support of SMFI. A few media personalities have also come out to cast doubt on the farmers' true intentions. Clearly, money is starting to flow and the Sumilao farmers have nothing to match this. The only thing they have is hope and the growing support of different sectors in their search for justice.

The meeting amounted to nothing. GMA used it to deodorize her image. The farmers were made into political props to make it appear that she is addressing the issue. The script has been followed to the letter. She wanted to "show" that she has a heart and that the people are important to her. It was another case of lip-service. She could have settled the case and let SMFI fight it in court. With the merits and evidences the farmers stand to win the case. This is the reason why SMFI is spending a huge amount to destroy the farmers and muddle the issue.

The meeting tonight has many interpretations, to buy time or to let douse the hot issue. This could force the farmers to give up the fight and for the support to wane. Whatever happens tonight, it will be tha make or break for the farmers. We all know what happens when politics enters the picture. I am confident that the leagl team will not abandon the farmers, what I am afraid of are the other personalities who claim to fight for the marchers. My only wish is for Gloria to show the same will and strength she has shown when fighting off her critics.

"Bloggers Call for Boycotting of Monterey/Purefoods Products in support of Sumilao farmers. This Christmas season, December 15, 2007 to January 2, 2008. Bring down the sales of San Miguel Food, Inc. to show public support to the farmers of Bukidnon who were denied of their 144 hectares of land. Please pass to all bloggers."