Public roads near Tadeco opened

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Several barangay roads traversing the Tagum Agricultural Development Co. Inc. (Tadeco) in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte have been opened.

The opening of the roads  is expected to benefit residents of Barangays Tulalian, Bugtung Lubi, Balagunan, Bobongon and Tanglaw.

Access to the barangay roads was previously restricted because a gate was built at the entrance of the plantation. Tadeco’s security guards reportedly accosted those who tried to cross the plantation to reach adjacent barangays.

The roads were opened following a survey of the land leased by the Bureau of Corrections to Tadeco as ordered by the House committee on good government and public accountability.

The House panel sought a new survey to determine provincial and barangay roads as well as public infrastructure that should not be obstructed.

Residents welcomed the survey team, but Tadeco officials said they would file charges against those responsible for the destruction of the company’s biosecurity barrier in Barangay Tanglaw in Braulio Dujali town. 

Tadeco officials said entry to the plantation was restricted to prevent the spread of pest infestation.