More than 700 families on Sicogon Island have filed a petition to reclaim 80 hectares of land from a tourism project, citing unfulfilled promises by the developer.
The families from the villages of San Fernando, Buaya, and Alipata filed the petition with the Department of Agrarian Reform on May 20. They argue that the Sicogon Island Tourism Estate Corporation failed to provide promised housing, livelihood programs, and jobs under agreements signed in 2014 and amended in 2021.
Residents expressed frustration at a press conference. Juliet Bantillo said the developer told them sari-sari stores would no longer be allowed near the beachfront once development was complete. Jocelyn Supetran added that families would not move to relocation sites without proof of ownership over the houses there.
Tourism facilities on the island have stopped operations. The airport closed in late 2025, and Huni Hotel along with Balay Kogon villas are set to close permanently on June 15. A hotel employee said workers would receive termination pay before that date.
The land in question forms part of an 810-hectare joint venture area between Sicogon Development Corporation and Ayala Land that began in 2010. The petitioners want the 80 hectares returned so they can continue farming and fishing.
