MALAYBALAY CITY (Nov. 22, 2023) – Another tension has arisen between the security personnel of Central Mindanao University (CMU) and members of a farmer’s group called Buffalo, Tamaraw, Limus (BTL) on November 21 afternoon

The commotion occurred near Sayre Highway, Purok 21-A, Dologon, Maramag, when CMU security personnel attempted to drive away farmers who had been erecting temporary structures within the university’s gated area, particularly at the university’s Beef Cattle Project.

According to the report, four people were injured as a result of the beating with sticks and stone-throwing that erupted between the two groups. As reported, one of them was CMU security personnel.

The tension subsided only when personnel from Maramag Municipal Police Station (MMPS) arrived.

The university administration has released a memorandum advising its faculty members of the implementation of a flexible/outcomes-based Teaching/Learning Arrangement the day following the incident to protect the safety and security of the students.

BTL members have infiltrated, occupied, and built shanties in the Beef Cattle Project area fronting the Sayre Highway ahead of the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Election (BSKE).

CMU’s agriculture, veterinary, and forestry students would use the area as a laboratory.

To recall, on October 31, 2023, CMU personnel removed part of the shanties in the region with the presence of police and soldiers, but BTL members resisted. Later, the Mayor of Maramag and his Vice Mayor arrived, and a discussion took place.

BTL has yet to issue a statement on the incident as of this writing. (melbmadera)