Protests vs. oil search did not mar celebration

CEBU - The recent protest by fisherfolk from Sibonga and Argao against the oil drilling and seismic surveys initiated by NorAsian Energy Ltd. of Australia in the area did not affect Argao’s celebration of its 400th founding anniversary, said Mayor Edsel Galeos.

“Wala man, it did not affect at all,” Galeos said, adding, that the celebration has the full support of the Argaowanons.

Galeos said that even before the protests were held, an information campaign was initiated for the residents of the town to understand the issue.

“Gipahibalo nato ang taga-patag, og apil na sad ang mga taga-bukid…gisigihan na nako sila og hangyo nga ipagawas ang gibati kay this is a democratic country apan ang ako lang hangyo is kung mag-demonstrate man gani, kinahanglan peaceful,” Galeos said.

Last week, about 500 fishermen, including a number of children, went on board 80 pump boats and traveled the coast of Sibonga to the port of Argao with their placards expressing opposition to the oil exploration. Another group of fisher folk also staged a picket at the town hall.

Yet while the freedom of expression is being recognized in Argao, Galeos also asked the fisher folk to respect the decision of the majority in the event of that most of the Argawanons would not oppose the oil exploration.

“Ako silang giingnan, iyahay lang ta respetuhanay kay puros man ta tag-iya sa Argao. Ug naa gusto nga daghan, ato respetuhan, ug daghan ang dili, ato pud respetuhan,” he said. — Kareen Joy Saliente/JMO (THE FREEMAN)