CABUYAO, Laguna — At least 21 farmers and residents of Sitio Veinte-Veinte Cuatro in Barangay Casile, Cabuyao City are currently under police custody following a violent demolition that has once again brought attention to long-standing land disputes in Laguna. The arrests took place late in the evening of February 7, after armed security guards linked to Laguna Estates Development Corporation (LEDC) reportedly took the residents and turned them over to the Philippine National Police–Cabuyao.

According to reports, the tension began earlier that day when security personnel allegedly blocked access to the barangay and forcibly dismantled a protest camp set up by residents. The operation was reportedly carried out with the assistance of Emirates Security. Progressive group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) Laguna claimed that those arrested included senior citizens, individuals with existing medical conditions such as diabetes and bladder disease, and even one person with a mental health condition. Officers of the local farmers’ group, Samahan ng mga Magsasaka ng Casile (SAMACA-PUMALAG), were also among those detained.

This incident is not an isolated case. The land conflict in Casile dates back to 2024, when farmers accused Sta. Rosa Realty and Development Corporation (SRRDC) of illegally fencing off agricultural land they have long cultivated. Both SRRDC and LEDC are reportedly owned by the same family, raising questions about power imbalance and influence in the dispute.

Beyond the immediate arrests, the situation highlights a deeper issue: how land conflicts in the Philippines are often resolved through force rather than dialogue. When private security guards are deployed, and vulnerable individuals end up behind bars, it raises serious concerns about due process, human rights, and whose interests are being prioritized. As authorities continue to monitor the situation, the public is left to reflect on a crucial question: in land disputes like this, are farmers truly protected by the law—or are they simply pushed aside in favor of corporate power? (Larawan mula sa: Facebook)