To GMA Kapuso’s Sumbungan ng Bayan and other media channels for broader public awareness:


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2025

Sitio Sto. Niño Residents Seek Senate Protection Amid Political Harassment and Land Obstruction

Parañaque City, Metro Manila — The Sitio Sto. Niño Culiglig Neighborhood Association Inc. is urgently calling on the Philippine Senate and national media to intervene and provide protection after enduring sustained harassment, political interference, and unlawful obstruction of land rights by local government officials linked to a long-standing political dynasty.

The Association, based in Dr. A. Santos Ave., Juanita De Leon St., Phase 1B, Culiglig, Sitio Sto. Niño, Barangay San Dionisio, has legally pursued ownership of Lot 4110 Cad 299 since the early 1990s. Recognized as Alienable and Disposable (A&D) land by the DENR-NCR as early as 1994, the community has complied with all legal requirements, including forming a registered association in 1993 and securing a Supreme Court Decision dated February 23, 2022, affirming their legitimacy as long-time possessors and residents.

Despite this, residents report that neighboring claimants—allegedly backed by political families including the Olivarez and De Leon groups—have unlawfully settled people on untitled land in exchange for political favors, while obstructing the rights of legitimate residents.

“We are down to a single pending signature—from Mr. Henry Pacis of the DENR-NCR—for our Survey Authority. This has been delayed for over four months,” said Merlina Suarez, President of the Sitio Sto. Niño Culiglig Neighborhood Association. “Meanwhile, we face intimidation, halted house construction, political manipulation of our association, and threats with no legal basis.”

Residents recount previous unauthorized demolitions, refusal to issue Barangay certifications, and unauthorized attempts to install association leadership without member consultation or authority. Most recently, barangay officials have made statements undermining institutions such as the Ombudsman, mocking due process with remarks like “Walang silbi ang Ombudsman, pera-pera lang ’yan.”

The Association further warns of strategic interference in its scheduled Homeowners Association Election on June 28, 2025, raising fears of vote suppression and manipulation.

“We’ve exhausted all local remedies. This is now an SOS. The Barangay Chair, the Mayor, and even the incoming Mayor all share the same last name. Who do we turn to?” Suarez added.

The Association now calls for the immediate intervention of the Senate—including the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) to prevent further interference, ensure a peaceful election, and allow land processing to proceed without obstruction.

“We ask our Senate leaders to stand with us—not just to defend our land, but to defend our dignity.”

Media outlets are encouraged to cover this urgent appeal. The Association is reaching out to:

  • GMA Kapuso Sumbungan ng Bayan / Imbestigador
    📧 imb_sumbunganngbayan@gmanetwork.com
    ☎️ (02) 928-4713
  • Kapuso Action Man (GMA Integrated News)
  • ABS-CBN Teleradyo Serbisyo
  • TV5 Frontline Pilipinas
  • Philippine Daily Inquirer
  • Rappler
  • Manila Bulletin
  • DZBB, DZRH, and other radio news networks

For interviews, documentation, or community visits, please contact:
Merlina Suarez
President, Sitio Sto. Niño Culiglig Neighborhood Association Inc.
📞 +63 954 970 5880


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