Unraveling the Truth: Land-Grabbing Allegations and Deception in Surigao del Norte
In the heated political landscape of our province, a rivalry has been brewing between two prominent politicians. Former Governor Francisco Lalo Matugas, a 3-term Congressman in the 14th – 16th Congress in 2007-2016, has been accused of land grabbing by the Barbers every election cycle. They have repeatedly made baseless claims without presenting any evidence. However, the truth behind these accusations paints a very different picture, revealing the former governor as a land giver to the landless and a champion for integrated government offices in the Island of Siargao, Surigao del Norte, 2nd Distrist.
The Real Score
The Barbers camp has consistently and relentlessly sowed a repeated and aggressive propaganda spree alleging land grabbing during election season cycles, accusing the former governor. The former governor, in turn, has challenged these allegations, asserting that they are baseless and unsubstantiated. However, recent developments have cast a new light on the situation, revealing surprising revelations about both politicians and shedding light on the truth behind the accusations and the murky realities of both contenders’ involvement in land-related issues.
Contrary to the Barbers’ propaganda, evidence has surfaced to showcase the former governor’s commitment to land allocation initiatives. As an advocate for the landless, the former governor has played a crucial role in facilitating land donations to those in need. Silently, since December 2000, when he was governor, the family has started donating a portion of the couple’s combined inherited land to the now Matugas Village in Sitio Hilamun in Brgy. Osmena for the landless for one (1) hectare. Numerous beneficiaries have testified to the governor’s efforts to provide them with a fair chance to own land and improve their lives.
His efforts in creating an integrated government office for streamlined transactions have been commendable, including providing land to set up these government offices. The LTO was only a satellite office on the Island after the separation of Dinagat and Siargao, and former governor Lalo Matugas, after passing a bill to have the island’s own LTO district office during his time as Congressman, donated 1,131 sq m of land for the district office to be built. The RTC, which doesn’t have a separate building of its own, prompted the former governor to donate land for their office to build (1,300 sq m). A more expanded and spacious office for the DepEd office (1,729 sq m) and for the TESDA office (1,308 sq m). These are 8,484 square meters of prime land for government offices.
The Tides have Turned
Ironically, the Barbers, who have relentlessly targeted the former governor, have now been embroiled in a land-grabbing controversy. Recent events have uncovered a startling twist in this political saga. Recent developments have revealed that their own political ally and die-hard supporter has accused them of land grabbing. Pertinent documents have been presented in public, establishing the complainant’s legal ownership of the disputed small piece of land in front of their Lipata mansion, which they attempted to seize. The Barbers accusing the former governor of land grabbing now face a land grabbing allegation of their own. A complainant has come forward with pertinent documents, demonstrating the rightful ownership of a piece of land grabbed by the Barbers in front of their Lipata mansion. This unexpected development has put the Barbers in an uncomfortable position, raising questions about their credibility, true intentions, and hypocrisy.
Upon closer examination, the former governor’s actions paint a stark contrast to the accusations levied against him. The former governor’s role as a land giver, providing opportunities for the landless, and facilitating the establishment of integrated government offices showcases a commitment to public welfare. The vision of creating government offices by donating land speaks to a dedication to efficiency and Siargaonon’s convenience. These actions align with a responsible and accountable approach to governance, standing in stark contrast to the baseless propaganda of land grabbing by the Barbers.
What we should do?
As voters, it is essential to look beyond mere propaganda and seek evidence-based governance from our elected representatives. The responsibility lies with us to make informed decisions and hold our leaders accountable. Voters should critically assess the credibility of these claims and weigh them against the candidates’ track records and contributions to the community.
In times of political rivalry, it is crucial for us Surigaonons to look beyond the surface and seek the truth behind the claims. Therefore, This is a stark reminder that not everything we hear in the political arena may be accurate or well-intentioned. As responsible Surigaonons, let us make informed decisions based on facts and evidence rather than falling prey to divisive propaganda. Only by doing so can we ensure a just and equitable Surigao del Norte for all of us.
