Tension escalates over disputed Asin Road property
The group entered the site despite objections from Benedict Valenciano, one of the primary parties involved in the court case, who subsequently placed an emergency call to 911.
BAGUIO CITY — A long-standing land dispute along Asin Road escalated Tuesday when a 69-year-old woman and members of a former armed group entered a contested property, prompting law enforcement to establish 24-hour security at the site.
Police Station 9 reported that the group arrived at the property in Purok 2, Kilometer 3, Asin Road at approximately 9:30 a.m.
The group entered the site despite objections from Benedict Valenciano, one of the primary parties involved in the court case, who subsequently placed an emergency call to 911.
Valenciano stated that approximately 20 people accompanied the woman, alleging he was shoved and injured during the confrontation. Law enforcement officers have not verified the alleged assault, and no criminal charges have been filed in connection with the incident.
Valenciano identified the group’s leader as Joel Gatchalian, who heads the “Busay” faction of the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA).
Officers from Police Station 9 and the City Mobile Force Company responded to the scene during the morning, while personnel from Police Station 9 and the Mobile Patrol Unit returned later in the afternoon.
Authorities confirmed that no firearms were displayed or used during the confrontation.
The ownership dispute remains pending in court, focusing on the legal validity of documents concerning waivers of rights, property reconveyance, damages, and a petition for a preliminary injunction.
Both parties agreed to participate in a dialogue tentatively scheduled for Thursday, 22 October, with Baguio City Councilor and attorney Jose Molintas expected to act as mediator.
Law enforcement confirmed that one member of the group was formerly associated with the CPLA, which was founded in 1986 by Fr. Conrado Balweg after splitting from the New People’s Army. The group signed an early ceasefire with the Philippine government but declined to disarm.
Following Balweg’s assassination in 1999 and the termination of government funding in 2000, the organization splintered into decentralized factions linked to extortion, illegal logging, marijuana cultivation, and enforcement in land disputes.
Police Station 9, the City Mobile Force Company, and the Mobile Patrol Unit are maintaining a continuous physical presence at the Asin Road property to prevent further confrontations while the courts resolve the ownership case.