Bishop seeks God’s intervention for farmers

FARM workers of the controversial Hacienda Luisita and supporters of land reform are seeking God’s intervention through prayers to the Black Nazarene.

“If the government will not listen, we ask God to hear us,” said Bishop Broderick Pabillo of Manila, who led a Mass at the Quiapo Church Friday.

In his homily, Bishop Pabillo explained why the Church is supporting the farmers and why all Filipinos should support their cause.

“If we want food security, we should get involved and help these farmers. They plant rice, corn and sweet potatoes for us, unlike big landowners who plant exported products,” Bishop Pabillo said.

Hacienda Luisita is a 6,453-hectare sugar plantation in Tarlac province owned by the maternal relatives of President Benigno Aquino.

In November 2011, the Supreme Court, voting 14-0, ruled in favor of the farmers, agreeing to distribute the sugar plantation. Hacienda Luisita Inc. (HLI), however, filed a motion for reconsideration in December, seeking to retain stocks distribution option and to base the compensation at the minimum value of 1 million pesos per hectare.

“They need help so I will also pray for them,” said Milagros Salonga, 42. Salonga, a Nazarene devotee, attends Mass every Friday with her 1.5-year-old grandson David, who has hydrocephalus.

“We are grateful because prayers were offered for us farmers,” said 53-year-old Lito Bais, the president of United Luisita Workers Union.

After the Mass, the farmers gathered outside the church, where they put up a photo exhibit, distributed leaflets and delivered messages in public.

“We are thankful to all priests, religious and other supporters. We hope they continue supporting our struggle for social justice,” said Rodel Mesa, the secretary general of the Union of Farm Workers.