The clarification, issued on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, follows claims by the Sambilog-Balik Bugsuk Movement asserting ancestral land rights over the area.
San Miguel emphasized that no less than the Department of Agrarian Reform has ruled in orders issued on Aug 15. and Sept. 20, 2023 that the properties in question are not eligible for agrarian reform distribution.
The company argued that reacquiring the land would violate the compensation already granted to original landowners and infringe upon constitutional property rights.
While acknowledging the complexities of land ownership in the Philippines, San Miguel expressed willingness to engage with stakeholders, including representatives of the Molbog indigenous community, to address their concerns.
San Miguel pointed out that no Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title exists for Bugsuk Island and that the current titles predate the 1997 Indigenous Peoples Rights Act.
The company also clarified that it holds no properties or development interests on Mariahangin Island, a nearby area mentioned in some claims.
Reiterating its commitment to the rule of law, San Miguel stated that it seeks to foster sustainable development on Bugsuk Island while respecting the rights of all legitimate stakeholders.
