Operations temporarily halted as ownership row deepens
POLOMOLOK, SOUTH COTABATO — A clan claiming ownership of a portion of land being utilized by Dole Philippines, Inc. (Dolefil) in Barangay Maligo has blocked the entrances and exits of the company’s Station 2 facility, paralyzing its operations since early this week.
Members of the Latimbon Clan, identified as the group behind the barricade, asserted that Dolefil has long occupied and cultivated the area without paying rent. In an interview, representatives of the clan said they had previously entered into negotiations with the company, which had reportedly agreed to grant rental compensation but failed to deliver on its promise.
“The company has been using our ancestral land for many years without giving us any compensation. We will not leave until Dolefil faces us and negotiates directly,” one clan member told local media. “We are not claiming ownership of the plantation; we are defending our right to our ancestral land.”
The group also questioned the authenticity of the land title held by Dolefil, claiming it covers properties located in Banga and Koronadal City rather than in Polomolok. As a result, the clan has challenged the company to present its legal documents and prove ownership of the disputed 681-hectare property.
Meanwhile, tribal leaders from nearby Blaan communities have appealed to authorities to ensure their safety amid fears of potential confrontations with the company’s security personnel. Dolefil guards have been previously linked to violent incidents involving members of Indigenous groups in Polomolok, General Santos City, and other nearby areas.
Local authorities have yet to release an official statement on the matter, while Dolefil has not responded to requests for comment as of press time.
Tensions remain high in the area as both sides stand firm on their respective claims. Negotiations and possible government mediation are being urged to prevent further disruption and ensure that the issue is resolved peacefully.