Vol 50. No. 2 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE RURAL MISSIONARIES OF THE PHILIPPINES APRIL - JUNE 2019 Fight for Democracy, National Sovereignty and Social Justice 2 EDITORIAL April - June 2019

On this issue Fight for Democracy, National Sovereignty and Social Justice Editorial efore the midterm elections, padding) and other forms of cheating. most of us were hopeful for an They have yet to explain substantially the 2 Fight for democracy, national independent Senate to be elected. failure of at least 961 machines for Voter sovereignty and social justice BAfter all, this is the only institution that Registration Verification and Counting Philippine strong-man Rodrigo Duterte Machines, affecting 600,000-800,000 has no clear control of. He was already votes; the glitches brought about by the News successful in removing an independent 1,665 defective SD cards; pre-shading chief justice of the Supreme Court and of ballots; rampant vote buying; red- 3 RMP files petition for Writ of enjoys a super majority in the House of tagging of progressive candidates; the Amparo and Habeas data Representatives. “meet me rooms”; the widespread voter disenfranchisement due to the Martial 4 RMP joins Black Friday Protest, But with the results of the mid-term law in Mindanao among others; and the demads full transparency on elections, Duterte has seemingly seized suspicious flow of results transmission. election irregularites. full control of the State apparatus as he 5 Killing of 14 farmers in Negros captured the Senate through his allies chairperson and Oriental, cruel and evil winning seats. bet in the last election said it best—that he will “ Many were disheartened, and rightfully not concede to a rotten electoral exercise Regions so. The electoral defeat of the democratic that has deceived, bribed, intimidated opposition means that Duterte will have and manipulated our people into electing 6 RMP EV joins Stand with Samar the backing of the Senate in whatever the worst kinds of leaders imaginable”. National Fact-Finding Mission, he wishes to do-- and that is such a uncovers truth about the massive frightening prospect. With the tyrannical And neither should we. We should not HRVs character of the Duterte regime, a new accept that this election reflected the 7 RMP EV holds Task Faith Reflection constitution to establish federalism with desires of the Filipino people. Instead and Dialogue of Life for Land and provisions for term extension is not very of blaming the voters, we should be Peace far-fetched. asking for the accountability of those in 9 RMP-Bicol holds Task-Faith power who have the audacity to call this Reflection Some blames the poor for the turnout. obviously flawed and non-transparent Terms such as “bobotante” came out automated election a victory. days after the election as the partial and Feature unofficial tally surfaced on the news. Neri also said, “I may have lost the count. But I will not be defeated. We will 10 Find courage to stand firm: A But laying the blame on Filipino voters, continue the fight for democracy, national Lenten Reflection especially the poor, assumes that they sovereignty and social justice. Tuloy ang 11 On my Fifth Year with the Banwaon have access to information to properly laban!” Tribe decide which ones are genuine in their intent and which ones are not. Moreover, That statement rings true to every blaming the masses for the results of Filipino who fights for their democratic Statement the election is like upholding the results rights, to peace advocates and human and implies that it reflects the people’s rights defenders who continue to resist 14 Stop the attacks against Church genuine aspirations. It is important to tyranny and dictatorship despite state workers of Northern Mindanao! note though that clearly, many people sponsored attacks. We must realize that were outraged by the results but the despite the disheartening results of the blame and accountability are misplaced. elections, the Filipino people still yearns Literary for genuine change and that we have a For the fourth time, the Philippines role to reach the broadest number of 15 Tulay tungo sa Laylayan ng Lipunan conducted an automated election them. for the midterm polls and yet, the elections proved to be anything but We must continue to be in solidarity efficient, credible, and transparent. The with the neglected, marginalized and Commision on Elections (COMELEC) oppressed proactively defend against has proclaimed the recent elections a the efforts of the Duterte regime and his success despite widespread protests of minions to consolidate power and further fraud, electronic rigging (vote shaving/ attack our rights and civil liberties. [s] April - June 2019 NEWS 3

photo courtesy of KARAPATAN RMP files petition for writ of amparo and habeas data he Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP) joined It also said it has been identified as a terrorist front in flyers Human rights group Karapatan and women’s rights handed out by suspected military personnel in Cagayan de Tgroup Gabriela in filing a 44-page petition on May 6, Oro City. 2019 asking the high court to issue a writ of amparo in their favour due to constant threats, harassment and red-tagging The petitioners claimed the attacks intensified with the against them.They also asked the high tribunal to issue a creation of the National Task Force to End Local Communist writ of habeas data ordering respondents to produce and, Armed Conflict (NTF) under Executive Order No. 70. The if necessary, to rectify or destroy any information in their NTF supposedly met with different UN and EU bodies database concerning the petitioners. tagging them as fronts of the CPP-NPA and even the National Democratic Front (NDF). Named as respondents in the petition are: President Rodrigo Duterte, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National “Moreover, the red tagging and labeling which emanated Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon, Presidential from the NTF, further aggravated the threats against the Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, several heads of the Armed life, liberty and security of the petitioners because it is Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the National Intelligence an expression of a government policy directed against Coordinating Agency (NICA) and the Philippine National legitimate civil society organizations, activist and human Police investigation unit. rights defenders like the petitioners in this case. The adverse effect of such red tagging has been recognized, since it has Also included in the petition are Presidential Task Force resulted in the harassment, intimidation, killings, abductions on Media Security Executive Director Undersecretary and even the filing of trumped up charges against them,” the Joel Sy Egco, Presidential Human Rights Committee petitioners added Secretariat Undersecretary Severo Catura and Presidential Communications Operations Office Undersecretary for New Aside from the writ of amparo and habeas data, petitioners Media and External Affairs Lorraine Badoy. also asked the high court for a temporary protection order for the protection of their members. “Petitioners, who are legitimate organizations, recognized both here and abroad, including their officers and members, They are represented by the National Union of Peoples’ have become open targets of human rights violations. The Lawyers (NUPL). glaringly numerous incidents of threats, harassment, and killings are aimed at curtailing their rights to freely exercise The petition comes a few days after the high court issued a their advocacies,” part of the petition reads. writ of amparo and habeas data in favor of NUPL. [s] RMP, highlighted the killing of Fr. Marcelito Paez, former RMP Corrdinator for Central Luzon last December 4, 2017 UPDATE: On May 30, 2019, the Supreme Court ordered the and the harassment against Australian missionary Sister Court of Appeals (CA) to conduct a hearing on the merits of Patricia Fox, who was eventually forced out of the country the petitions. The CA 14th Division however, dismissed the as among the recent attacks against their organization and petitions in a decision promulgated last June 28, 2019. its members. 4 April - June 2019 RMP joins Black Friday Protest, demads full transparency on election irregularites.

photo courtesy of ABS-CBN News

he Rural Missionaries of the Philippines Election polls watchdog Kontra Daya joined hundreds of people last May 17, spokesperson Danilo Arao questioned the 7-hour 2019 at the PICC in a potest action to raise delay of transmission of votes and demanded Tpertinent questions and demand full transparency accountability from the Comelec since the gap on what actually happened during the election showed a possibility of disenfranchisement of and post-election period. the votes of the Filipino people.

Among those present at the protest were church Neri Colmenares, Makabayan’s bet in the Senate people, rural sectors, youth and professionals. polls was also in attendance. He said that the call for for transparency and integrity of the elections “Today marks the coordinated Black Friday is not just about the candidates who did not protests against the widespread electoral fraud secure a seat but also about the clamor of the and violence that transpired in the recent mid- Filipino people for an independent Senate. term polls. The fight is far from over. We have all reasons to protest and collectively resist the For the Church people, Sr. Elen Belardo, rgs, massive fraud and cheating in the recent polls,” National Coordinator of RMP said that the said Danilo Ramos chairperson of the Kilusang Comelec should be held accountable for the Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP). irregularities and the lack of transparency in the recent elections. Bagong Alyansang Makabayan spokesperson Renato Reyes pointed out that the perceived She added that “the Filipino people should election irregularities could affect the integrity of continue to be critical and not be easily swayed the ballots cast by the people. He also slammed by vague statements and explanations in the incompetence of the Comelec due to the relation to the election irregularities. More so, technical glitches that occured in the 2019 polls, the people should be vigilant of the moves of where there were many cases of malfunctioning the administration following the results of the vote-counting machines and SD cards. election.” [s] April - June 2019 5 Killing of 14 farmers in Negros Oriental, cruel and evil - RMP

n April 1, 2019, the Rural Missionaries and Genes Palmares, 54 of Barangay Aquino. of the Philippines (RMP) vehemently Edgardo Avelino was the chairman of HUKOM or condemned the killing of 14 farmers in Hugpong Kusog sa Mag-uuma sa Canlaon City. ONegros Oriental early morning of March 30. RMP emphasized that these killings can be attributed to “We rebuke this evil and cruel act. We appeal to the President Duterte’s Memorandum Circular No. 32 that Commission on Human Rights to investigate these paved the way for intensified militarization in the regions incidents and we pray that the perpetrators be held of Negros, Samar and Bicol and his threatening remarks accountable and justice be given swiftly,“ said Sr. towards farmers who are asserting their rights to land. Elenita Belardo, rgs, National Coordinator of RMP. “We extend our sympathies to the victim’s families The 14 victims include 8 farmers from Canlaon and we appeal to our fellow Christians to join the City: Avelino brothers Ismael, 53, and Edgardo, call to stop the attacks against the rural poor and 59, of Sitio Carmen, Barangay Panubigan; Melchor advocates of land and peace. Our faith leads us Panares, 67, and his son, Mario, 46 of Sitio to do what is righteous, let us unite and raise our Tigbahi, Barangay Bayog; Rogelio Recomono, 52 voice against the evil that prevails in our country and his son Ricky, 28, of Sitio Manggata, Barangay – the evil of fascism, repression and tyranny. [s] Masulog; Gonzalo Rosales, 47, of Barangay Pula 6 REGIONS April - June 2019

Stand With Samar National Fact Finding Mission delegates in Brgy. San Miguel, Las Navas, Northern Samar RMP-EV joins Stand with Samar National Fact-Finding Mission, uncovers truth about

the massive HRVs by Marielle Domequil, RMP- EV LCW embers of RMP Eastern Visayas (EV) joined way home from the town proper of Las Navas. the two-day Stand with Samar National Fact-Finding Mission in Calbiga, Samar The two unidentified perpetrators were also riding a Mand Las Navas, Northern Samar from May 20 to motorcycle and used a 9-mm caliber pistol to shot May 21. The National Fact-Finding Mission was Lebico in the head. Lebico, on that day, submitted spearheaded by Katungod Sinirangan Bisayas, a a petition to the municipal government calling for human rights organization, and was joined in by the immediate pull-out of the military troops in Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, Karapatan Cebu, their village who have been camping in their barrio Community Empowerment Resource Network, since 2017 which could be the possible motive Central Visayas, Samahan han Gudti for the said killing. Prior to that day, Lebico was nga Parag-uma han Sinirangan Bisayas, and already experiencing surveillance and harassment United Church of Christ in the Philippines. The main from military elements camping inside San Miguel. objective of the Fact-Finding Mission was to uncover the truth behind the spate of human rights abuses. At around 9:30 in the evening of April 25, Brgy. Captain Wilmar Calutan was shot dead while he was in their Samar Island, together with Negros and Bicol, was bathroom. Calutan was shot seven times using a .45 declared under “state of lawlessness” in accordance pistol and 9mm firearm. Three of the perpetrators to Memorandum Order No. 32 issued on November were identified by the witness of the incident as Col. 22, 2018 which paved the way for the influx of Lucas Mabini of the Charlie Company of the 46th additional military deployment to far-flung barrios. IBPA, Sgt. Dennis Gacuma of the 52nd IBPA and The additional military battalions resulted to an Mario Gacuma, a CAFGU. A witness to Calutan’s increase in human rights abuses, the worst of these is death claimed that his murder was preceded by the killing of two barangay captains on the same day intelligence officers from the 46th IBPA frequenting of April 25 in separate incidences – Apolonio Lebico the village and around Calutan’s own house. Some of Brgy. San Miguel, Las Navas, Northern Samar other residents were even told by military elements and Wilmar Calutan of Brgy. Beri, Calbiga, Samar. that night that they should not be going outside their houses for they will “slaughter” someone. Apolonio “Baba Pining” Lebico was killed at 4 o’clock in the afternoon near the main camp These killings sowed fear amongst the residents of the 20th Infantry Battalion Philippine Army of Brgy. Beri and Brgy. San Miguel which pushed (IBPA) in Brgy. San Jorge, Las Navas while riding the residents to evacuate from their respective on a habal-habal (a single motorcycle) on his villages. In Brgy. Beri, 375 families seek refuge in April - June 2019 7

the town center on April 27 wherein they were still Philippines EV is one with the people of Samar in heavily surveilled by uniformed and masked military calling for justice for their slain barangay captains. elements. In Brgy. San Miguel, 225 families flew Furthermore, we reecho the calls of the people for from their homes after the 20th Infantry Battalion the pullout of military from civilian communities. spread rumors of a massacre plot against alleged Lastly, to put an end to these human rights violations, sympathizers of the communist rebels. San Miguel we urge the Armed Forces of the Philippines to residents demanded for a dialogue with Las Navas fervently adhere to the Comprehensive Agreement Mayor Minda Tan wherein the evacuees went back to on Respect for Human Rights and International Brgy. San Miguel as victors as the Municipality of Las Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) and we also call for Navas ordered the pullout of the 20th Infantry Battalion. the resumption of the peace negotiations between the GRP and NDFP for a just and lasting peace. [s] In light of these abuses, Rural Missionaries of the RMP EV holds Task Faith Reflection and Dialogue of Life for Land and Peace by Marielle Domequil, RMP- EV LCW

Sr. Elenita Belardo, RGS gives the RMP Orientation to the delegates of the RMP EV TFR and DOL

he Rural Missionaries of the Philippines Eastern She gave emphasis on the mission and vision of the Visayas held its Task Faith Reflection and organization especially that majority of the attendees are Dialogue of Life for Land and Peace on June 6-7 first-timers. She thanked the attendees and prayed for their T2019, at Juvies Resort, Catbalogan City with Church active participation in the duration of the two-day activity. workers, catechists and rural poor in attendance. Peasant leaders were invited for one of the main agenda of The first day started with an opening prayer led by Sr. the event - the Church - Rural Poor Conference which follows Edita Eslopor, OSB, the Regional Coordinator of Eastern See-Judge-Act. Lourdes Galano, a peasant leader from Visayas. She emphasized on the role of the Church in Leyte, spoke of the current situation of the rural poor in their helping the rural poor especially with the crises the sector province. The rural poor of Leyte faced massive land monopoly and the Filipino people are facing under the intensifying by few families, unfair profit sharing between the landlord anti-people policies of the Duterte administration. and the tenants, and lastly, El Niño - a natural phenomenon which left farmers with no harvest for months now. It was followed by the RMP Orientation given by the National Chairperson of RMP, Sr. Elenita Belardo, RGS. Jun Berino, the Secretary General of Samahan han Gudti nga continue to page 8 8 April - June 2019

Parag-uma ha Sinirangan Bisayas - the regional formation of The national situation was given by Sr. Elenita. This all the farmers under Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas shared to more proved the earlier reflections of the delegates that the Church people the three main problems faced by the the Duterte administration is failing in addressing the needs peasantry - hunger, poverty and militarization. The rising and interests of the Filipino people while it is subservient to prices of commodities due to TRAIN Law gravely affected the foreign countries such as the United States and China and rural communities and with Rice Tarrification as a law, the local rich families. In the national situation, the results of agricultural sector is doomed to decline because of lower the recently concluded 2019 Midterm Elections were also income because of bigger competitions in the rice and grain discussed especially the fraudulent nature of the elections. industry. He also put emphasis on the calamities that continue The delegation showed disappointment on the election of to affect the sector - the natural and man-made calamities. plunderers, kins of dictators, and land grabbers in the Senate. The natural calamities which resulted to the decline in the agricultural production of the region are the massive pest The second day was opened with a Biblio-Theological infestation and El Niño which are issues left unanswered Reflection by Sr. Elenita. With the attendance of by the government. Next is the calamity of human rights new delegates, the BTR focused on the works of abuses brought about by the deployment of more military Rural Missionaries and the focal role it plays in the battalions under Memorandum Order No. 32 which put the realization of the potential of the rural communities. Samar Island in a state of lawlessness. Human rights abuses were recorded to have increased after the declaration of MO It was followed by the Dialogue of Life for Land and 32 - cases of threat, harassment, intimidation, community Peace led by Sr. Elenita. In the reflection session after the encampment, physical abuse and murders intensified which morning events, the delegates shared how they are willing resulted to three mass evacuations in the Samar Island. to work as RMs to be instruments of God. They pledged to get out of their comfort zones to help those in need After learning the situation of the farmers, the delegates especially the sector that feeds us but are the ones hungry. were grouped into three to talk about their insights and reflections to what they have just heard. Most of the In the planning session, the region has planned to launch delegates answered that they were unaware of the situation educational activities within congregrations and youth especially of the intensifying militarization in the countryside. organizations throughout the year. A community exposure Most of them thought that the Duterte administration was for the youth was set to be conducted on the first week of July doing good in its responsibilities, however, the Church - so as to pair the theory they received in the TFR with practice. Rural Poor Conference proved them wrong. The delegates showed sympathy towards the rural poor especially in The two-day Task Faith Reflection and Dialogue of the sector’s call for genuine agrarian reform and the Life for Land and Peace finally ended with a Closing immediate pullout of troops from civilian communities. Liturgy given by Sr. Edita Eslopor, OSB, encouraging the delegates to serve the Lord by serving the people. [s]

Delegates of the RMP EV TFR and DOL, June 6-7, 2019, Juvies Resort, Catbalogan City. April - June 2019 9

Sr. Mela Alvarez, rgs speaks before the participants of the RMP-Bicol TFR and DOL RMP-Bicol holds Task-Faith Reflection by Sr. Claudia Sampal, OSB ast April 11, 2019, the Rural Missionaries of the The regional situation was discussed by the three farmers Philippines Bicol conducted a Task Faith Reflection ( from Albay, Sorsogon and Camarines Sur. It was followed by LTFAR) which was held in Sagrada Familia—a venue is the National Situation with Biblico-Theological Reflection owned by the Servants of Charity in Legazpi City, Albay. (BTR) given by Fr. Oliver Castor, CsSr, After the talks, some individuals shared some reflections which highlighted the The activity was participated by leaders of farmers role of the Church People in advocating the welfare of the organization in three provinces, namely Albay, Sorsogon rural poor. and Camarines Sur. Six religious women also attended and the rest of the participants were from the academe. In the afternoon, an orientation for members of the RMP and Friends of the Rural Poor (FORP) was discussed by Fr. The theme of the said activity was: Ipadagos ang Misyon Oliver , CsSr. He also led the renewal of full time members na may Panibag-ong mawot asin hampangon ang agyat na and the oath taking of the new RMP and FORP members kaiba ang katawhan sa sarong makatao asin matanos na and the FORP. banwaan. (Ipagpatuloy ang misyon na may panibagong hangarin (pag-asam) at harapin ang hamon kasama ang The successful activity ended in a community singing by sangkatauhan sa isang makatao at maayos na lipunan.) the participants. [s]

Fr. Oliver Castor, CsSR leads the oath taking of new RMP and FORP members 10 Feature April - June 2019

Find the Courage to Stand Firm: A Lenten Reflection

Church people march during the Walk for Life activity photo courtesy of AMRSP

he Lenten season showed itself as an opportunity for us to reflect on our faith in relation to what’s happening In our reality today, it can be easy to ask God why these around us and what to do with it. Many would agree things are happening. Why do the killings of innocent Tthat it is easier to proclaim our faith when the waters are farmers, indigenous peoples and peace advocates calm and our situations are steady than during trying times. continue? Why does poverty continue to cripple millions But it is during the rough waves when our faith is tested. of the Filipinos? It is not God that we should question. We have to ask ourselves if we have done our part. In the past few months, our firm criticism of the current administration—especially its anti-rural poor policies and The Scriptures tell us to “not withhold good from those programs—have put us, along with other progressive to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” groups, in the crosshairs of state forces. We have been red- tagged and accused of the most preposterous accusations As people of faith, it is in our power not only to help and such as child trafficking and financing terrorist activities. provide services, but to speak bravely against inequalities, injustices and oppression. It is in our power to encourage Essentially, these attacks aim to discourage us in our others – especially among Church people—to do so as well. mission. They want to see us cower in fear so that our It is in our power to remain dedicated to our mission and services to various communities will stop. They took continue to be in solidarity with the struggles of the rural offense in the service we provide for rural communities poor. We must also take an active role in demanding actions to such as trial schools, training, campaign and advocacy, etc. change the miserable situations of our brothers and sisters. because our work with the rural poor exposes the grave reality that in this country, the rural poor are neglected. Let us not be weakend by the attacks against us. In trying times, we should remember to “Be strong and They suffer the most due to social constructs courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the perpetrated by the elite and upheld by the state. Lord your God is with you wherever you go”. Joshua 1:9. For some, these attacks may be enough to subdue one’s devotion to a cause, but not for us because we realize In reality, God never truly leaves us, no matter the that our mission to serve the rural poor is not about situation we are in. We are not alone in this journey us. It is about God’s purpose for them. We are merely for God is with us. We must find the courage to stand instruments in God’s plan. Whenever we think of our firm and continue to do what He called us todo.[s] hardships, we should think about others’ struggles too. April - June 2019 11

A child gently sleeps in an evacuation Center in Agusan del Sur photo courtesy of Davao Today On my Fifth Year with the Banwaon

Tribe by Sr. Mary Amelia David, RGS n my first year among the group, I was just fended for himself or his parents must have left early listening, observing plainly being with them, for the field. After grinding a cup of corn, he boiled Oin the areas, in meetings, and in assemblies. it. Unmindful of my presence, he took out a part of a It was hard because I could not yet speak Visaya like dried fish, as small as his thumb and broiled it, must a dumb-deaf creature. I was at the mercy of those be leftover from supper. around me. I broke in tears when my patience hit its limits. It was such a lonely world. It had its gains, I remembered visiting a zoo and with delight looked though. I learned to be sensitive of the way people at monkeys eating so lavishly --and now this young look and touch, the sweetness of smiles, the warmth child, eating so destitutely. It pained me. I examined of embrace, the helping, generous hand, the cold looks my conscience. I’m particular about food. I complain and uncomfortable presence. I learned to express about its taste and I always look for dessert! Truly, we ideas in action. live not on food alone. One day, as I could not express to the tribal children When we were first invited to join in a tribal ritual that we needed to be clean to prevent sickness, so called, “kaliga-on”. I tried to be one with the after an afternoon play with them, we all went to the community in celebration. They had a procession of spring and took a bath together! the Precious Jar of their ancestors, offering of gifts, pig, etc. ,sharing the rice wine and having a communal One morning, I went around, curious as to how children meal. At first, I did not mind the dirty surroundings. prepare for school. I stopped, seeing a child of about Everybody spontaneously spat as they chewed betel seven years of age, grinding corn with a big primitive nuts. After the communal meal I rushed to a cottage wooden grinder much bigger that he is. He looked to hid as I threw up. Tolerance had its limits. I cried at me with shy eyes, but continued on grinding. He in self pity, but I did not give up, then I recovered. I continue to page 12 12 April - June 2019

thought that was a way of purification for me. I went the rape of a forest. I scream with the fall of every back to the group, this time, determined to be with tree. them. They were not dirty spewers. There was purity in their hearts that attracted me to them. The Banwaon are strengthened by their already existing organizational structure led by the Supreme After sometime, I could engage in an exchange of ideas, Datu (chieftain). They have their own defense system in words. I observed that I have become dependent called ‘Bagani’ to protect the Ancestral Domain from on written words. I was cautious. Tribal peoples are foreign domination. They are basically peace- loving. spontaneous and they retain whatever is shared with They always find ways to prevent conflict by being first them – their ancestors, their agreements are not to withdraw and hide. written in documents, simply spoken words, that are remembered, respected and implemented faithfully Those days, they are under pressure from living by the because they regarded it as sacred, and will defend it banks of the river to staying on mountain tops. with their life! And no, I’m on guard to share only what is true. Today, there is no more space to move on to. Several times they were attacked by PANAMIN armed groups. A ‘Baylan’ (priest) noticed my praying before and after Then by CHDFs, ( Civilian Home Defense Forces) lately meals and asked what it was all about. When I said it by CAFGUs (Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Units). was thanksgiving for the gifts, he told me they praise God ‘ Magbabaya’ for providing them a place to plant, Sad to note that there are members of the tribe among that they ask the Powerful One to guard their field and the armed groups who are used by some powerful thank God for the bountiful harvest-- all these and a elite interested in the logs and gold in the tribal area. community celebration. They share their harvest so no one in the community is left unattended. And that’s The tribal communities, through their Supreme Datu, how they pray-- the whole of their life! requested the Catholic Church to teach them to read and write and help them educate their children. Other I had a chance to go to the logging area, almost 60 religious groups visited their area, but some are only kilometers away from Agusan River and I witnessed interested in engaging in a business venture, or to do

A Banwaon woman cooking photo courtesy of Davao Today April - June 2019 13

‘intelligence’ work! At noon time, we reached the first hut in the middle of a farm. A family welcomed us. One of them gave Friendly with other tribes, they are able to see us water and sweet potatoes. Then, they joined us that they are not alone in their efforts to protect as we continued our journey to another mountain, their ancestral domain and their right to self then, another. I felt the challenge… walk, walk…. determination. They unite in proclaiming that it be Lose not your courage. I am with you. I was all the recognized and be respected by all peoples. way, praying: ” accompany us, be with us”. More and more is asked of me until I have given my all As the tribe grew in their social awareness, they experienced military harassments, food blockades It was dusk when we reached Maasam River. We and evacuation. Countless have been killed in saw some of the evacuees on the way. We sat down ambushes and military operations. Weeping and to listen to them. After supper, we left and took a groaning is heard everywhere. bamboo raft down Maasam River. It was drizzling and the cold night wind was blowing around I was in the tribal area in a recent military- us. The moon, almost full, provided us with CAFGU operations. We were on our second light. We remained quiet almost the whole day of our staff meeting when trip as there might be CAFGUs suddenly we heard sounds of “ on the way. We were shivering, guns nearby. We prayed. A little I felt the challenge, wrapped in wet clothes, tense girl, trembling--almost crying, and in fear. At 3:30 a.m., we felt approached us and gave us the walk, walk…. Lose not we could not go on anymore. We message from the elders to pack might die of cold and exhaustion. our things. Without any word, your courage. we did as we were told. The God is so good! A hut with a shootings continued. We walked I am with you. I was little flickering, welcoming light to our neighbors’ place a few just appeared on one side of the meters away. We watched them all the way, praying: river… just what we needed. We pack their things, trembling in did not hesitate to go in for a few fear. The men went to the field ”accompany us, be moments of relief. The family to keep the carabaos safe. stood up from their mats and with us”. offered it to us. Then, a bonfire A baby, sleeping peacefully, and hot coffee. This refuge was calmed us. But the face of an expectant mother, unforgettable. I was so amazed with the warm probably on her sixth month troubled me. We welcoming spirit of the family. They gave their all hoped she will be able to overcome the tension this to us including their space in the mat at such an situation might bring. unholy hour of sleep! At 4:30 a.m., we have to go. It was still a long way from home. We made efforts As we sat down to ease our tension, we prepared to pull ourselves from the dry mat to go back to the ourselves for death. We were given orientation to coldness of the raft. It took four more hours before stay put for the night, to stay awake and be alert we reached a barrio where we sent word to the in case there will be a need to transfer and hide in Sisters to get us by a motorized banca. At this final another area in the forest. stretch of the journey, it rained very hard. I cried … my way of expressing gratitude … we made it! Early the next day, we started walking at 6:30 a.m. up and down the mountains, then down the high The rain just stopped when we passed by a military- slippery, steep rocks. When you miss a step you’ll fall CAFGU detachment. We were stopped. We climbed and die. We heard firing again at about 11 a.m. We a slippery, muddy hill to reach the detachment. We stopped. After a few minutes of rest, we continued were not prepared for this. We agreed that only one on to another mountain. Then, we heard the sounds should answer. I volunteered. The military inquired of men running. We quietly sat down and when we where we came from and scrutinized our things… felt it was safe, we went on. After a while, we saw an then released us. ax on the way. We concluded that some men were working there and when they heard us, they must Reaching home we received a very warm welcome! have thought we were enemies and ran. It was such Tired, yet full in touch with Depth! Renewed in our a tense-filled atmosphere. inmost being! [s] 14 Statement April - June 2019

Stop the attacks against Church workers of Northern Mindanao! Statement of the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.”

Matthew 5:11

The Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP) condemns in the strongest terms the filing of baseless and malicious charges against members of our Northern Mindanao Sub-Region (RMP-NMR) by State forces. These charges are clear example of judicial harassment against Church workers in an attempt to stop their efforts in helping the rural poor. Sister Emma Teresita Cupin, MSM, the Sub-Regional Coordinator of RMP-NMR, and 2 lay workers were included in a subpoena for various rights defenders and advocates for their alleged involvement in a military action by the New People’s Army in Bayugan, Agusan del Sur on December 19, 2018. Our members were accused of participating in said action which led to the capture of 2 military men and 14 CAFGUs by said armed group. Maliciously implicating our members in these incidents is absurd. Our member’s whereabouts during this period are well-documented. It is also worth noting that Sr. Emma is 63 years old, while one of the lay workers, Ritchel Hilogon, is five-months pregnant at the time. Are we supposed to believe that they were involved in attacking a military camp? Or that they “visited” the rebel’s camp in the mountains where the CAFGU members were held as Prisoners of War? But more than the absurdity of the case, this step by the government and the military is very dangerous. It unmasks the real essence of Martial Law: helping the poor means you put your life and liberty at risk. Follow the teachings of the Church in having preferential treatment of the poor, and the enemies of peace and justice will set their eyes and fangs against you. These incidents are just the latest of harassment and threats against members of RMP not only in Northern Mindanao but in the whole country as well. But no matter the threats and dangers, RMP will not waver in our stand with our members and the rural poor. We will exhaust all legal means to prove the innocence of our members against these ridiculous charges. We will take all measures to protect our members and partners from those who wish us harm. As RMP approaches its Golden Jubilee, we will continue to stand for truth, justice and peace. Together with the rural poor and the support of the religious and lay rights advocates, we shall overcome these threats.

[sgd] Sr. Elenita Belardo, rgs National Coordinator, RMP June 20, 2019 April - June 2019 15

Tulay Tungo sa Laylayan ng Lipunan Tula ni Sr. Edita Eslopor, OSB alay sa mga taga San Miguel, Las Navas, NS

Tulay ng San Miguel umiindayog Katotohanan sa kwento at talakayan, Yumuyogyog sa huni ng bubuyog Paliwang, katanungan nag Daanan ng mga manlalakbay kaintindihan Lumalakad nang sabay sabay Sa mga may hawak ng kapangyarihan Mga armas na hawak kanilang Pinatay Barangay Kapitan sandalan Las Navas na pinanggalingan Militar daw ang nagsagawa Huwag matakot, ang Dios kasama Ayon sa mga naroon at nakakita Sa tuwina sa Dios tayo ay umasa Pag-ibig Nya tayo ay magpuri Tumulong daw sa NPA? Kasalanan? Wawakasan mga naghaharing uri Tunay na paglabag sa karapatan Walang imbestigasyon, baril humusga Pang abuso ng kapangyarihan, Natapos fact-finding misyon ebidensya Resulta’y dapat may aksyon Isiwalat sa Korte at sambayanan Mga residente ng barangay Husgahan, hatulan ang may kasalanan Sinakloban ng takot sa kaaway Nagbakwet upang makalayo Balik sa umiindayog na tulay Sa pagbanta ng mga sundalo Daladala’y patotoong buhay Sa malayong laylayan ng lipunan Mga kalahok sa fact finding misyon Mga nagdurusa kailangang Isinagawa Mayo 21 ngayong taon matulungan Mga pangyayari sa totoo lang Testigo nagpahayag ang totoo lang Papa Francisco, may kasabihan Buong tatag pinanindigan “Ang tunay na kapangyaihan Gawaing militar kinatakutan Sa ano mang antas” ay serbisyo Presensya, mitsa ng kamatayan Ito ay sa Kristyano magpapatotoo Takot ang umiral sa mga sibilyan Sa mga nag-ayos at naglunsad Abugado ng bayan nagpahayag Ng ganitong fact- finding misyon Karapatan ng sibilyan di dapat binasag Kapuripuri kayo’t di pangkaraniwan Militar, sila ay sinusweldohan Di alintana ang banta’t kapahamakan. Upang ipagtanggol mga karapatan EDITORIAL BOARD Sr. Elenita Belardo, RGS Fr. Oliver Castor, CSsR Sr. Rebecca Pacete, MMS SPARKS serves as a news bulletin for all RMP members and friends. It is envisioned that all materials published Writer: must come primarily from the organization’s regional network. Faith Padolina-Segundo

Inquiries and articles may be sent to: Contributors: Rural Missionaries of the Philippines 75 C Maginhawa St. U.P. Village, Quezon City Marielle Domequil, RMP- EV LCW Tel no. (02) 744 2790 Sr. Claudia Sampal, OSB Email: [email protected] Sr. Mary Amelia David, RGS Website: https://ruralmissionaries.wordpress.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/RMPNational Layout: Banlin Pond