POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — What was initially welcomed as a step toward agro-industrial development has turned into a growing public health concern in Barangay Palkan, Polomolok, as residents raise alarm over a persistent fly infestation allegedly linked to nearby poultry farm operations.
Residents said they were hopeful when an investor established a poultry farm in the village, seeing it as a potential source of jobs and economic growth. However, those expectations quickly soured after swarms of flies began invading homes, forcing families to shut doors and windows even during the Christmas season and New Year celebrations.
Photos posted by residents on social media show thick clusters of flies inside houses, on walls, tables, and food. Some villagers lamented that even eating and sleeping had become difficult due to the infestation.
“Every year, there are complaints, but the problem is neglected,” one netizen wrote in a viral post. “People are suffering. Even while eating, flies are everywhere. It’s no longer healthy.”
Concerns have further intensified in Purok Salol after residents learned that the same investor has reportedly purchased land in their area, raising fears that another poultry facility could be built and further worsen the situation.
Adding to the pressure on local officials, resident Neil Mark Luspo issued an open letter addressed to the Barangay Palkan Council, criticizing what he described as prolonged inaction despite the problem persisting for more than two weeks.
Citing the Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act No. 7160) and the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines (Presidential Decree No. 856), Luspo stressed that barangay officials have a legal duty to protect public health and maintain sanitary conditions within their jurisdiction.
“The uncontrolled proliferation of flies poses a serious health risk to the community,” Luspo said, urging the Punong Barangay and the barangay kagawad in charge of health to issue an official public statement and implement an immediate and concrete plan of action. He warned that continued inaction could force residents to elevate the issue to the municipal level.
Residents are now calling on the Polomolok local government unit (LGU) to investigate the poultry farm’s compliance with environmental and sanitation regulations and to enforce corrective measures to protect affected communities.
As of this press time, barangay and municipal authorities have yet to issue any official response to the complaints, further fueling frustration and concern among residents who say their health and daily lives are already being compromised.