The Xavier Science Foundation, Inc. distributed food packs to families of displaced Indigenous Peoples communities in Bukidnon particularly in Kibaritan, Kalilangan and Butong, Quezon on March 10 and 11, respectively.
The two communities namely Manobo-Pulangiyon Tribal Association (MPTA) and Kibaritan Farmers St. Peter Higaonon Tribe Agriculture Cooperative are facing land-conflicts issues of their ancestral domain and farm lands and are currently living alongside the road with makeshift huts and shelters. Their livelihood and other means of income were disrupted due to the situation. In order to live by, some family members are working as laborers in nearby sugarcane plantations.
The MPTA and Kibaritan Farmers are currently being supported by the Diocese of Malaybalay and other Lumad advocates as their lives are being threatened each day. Legal assistance were provided in pursuit of justice and for them to return home safely.
The food assistance received was through the LUSH emergency response grant in coordination with the International Land Coalition – National Engagement Strategy Philippines. ILC-NES is a platform defending land and environmental defenders, and demanding greater accountability from government and businesses for land grabbing.
XSF will continue to provide necessary assistance to communities in and around the Bukidnon area. It accepts donations and grants for food, medical, shelter and legal assistance. Feel free to contact xsf@xu.edu.ph.
