Agusuhin Demolition Stopped

Demolition in Agusuhin, Subic, Zambales was temporarily halted due to on-going negotiation to settle dispute with the island’s settlers. More than 200 families in Sitio Agusuhin, Bgy. Cawag, Subic, Zambales is facing eviction.

Reynaldo Samonte, Chairperson of Samahan ng Malaya at Nagkakaisang Residente ng Agusuhin (SAMANRA, Organization of Free and United Residents of Agusuhin) said that Zambales governor Vic Magsaysay had “ordered the demolition of the community” and the to date, they have already succeeded in destroying many houses including the three buildings of the Agusuhin Elementary School and Agusuhin High School, both of which were constructed by the settlers themselves and without help from the government.

Samonte claims they have been living in the area for at least 50 years and will fight the plan to uproot them from their community. He belied reports that they have been paid already and that they were provided a decent relocation.

Earlier visits by Zambales Vice Governor Ramon Lacbain revealed that other activities relative to the construction of Hanjin Shipyard is causing sickness among the island's inhabitants.

Inside sources revealed that the primary reason for the temporary stoppage of demolition activity is to pacify the protesters in preparation for the ground breaking ceremony scheduled today where President Arroyo will be the guest of honor.


This writer called SBMA this morning and was informed that the ground breaking ceremony was reset to another date, SBMA Chairman Fil Salonga and Administrator Armand C. Arreza however proceeded to Malacanang to update the President on the developments in the Subic Bay Freeport.