Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Diarog relatives, folks return home
THE kin of slain tribal leader Dominador Diarog and other residents of sitio Kahusayan have returned home Monday after two months of hiding in the city proper.
The family and residents fled their homes out of fear after the strafing incident in April 29, 2008, which led to Diarog's death and the injury of his two daughters. The family home was also burned to the ground.
The killing was allegedly because of Diarog's refusal to sell his two-hectare property, which is part of the tribe's ancestral domain.
The Diarogs headed home escorted by human rights groups, the police, and Councilor Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz representing the City Government.
"They requested for escort and I was also tasked by Acting Mayor Sara Duterte because during the committee hearing, we committed to provide assistance. We also passed a resolution asking the police to secure the area which was one of their requests before going back," Ortiz said.
A police outpost will be established in the area to provide protection for the residents.
"The police have already coordinated with the Barangay Council for the spot where they can place the outpost," Ortiz said.
Ortiz added that the City Council, through her office, will continue to monitor the progress of Sitio Kahusayan and is set to provide medical assistance as soon as they get settled in. (GLP)
