20 people, some alleged CPLA members from Kalinga, occupy disputed property in Baguio amid ownership row

BAGUIO CITY — Around 20 people entered and occupied a contested property along Asin Road on Tuesday, October 20, prompting police intervention amid a long-standing ownership dispute already being heard in court.

Baguio City Police Station 9 reported that the group arrived at around 9:30 a.m. at Purok 2, Kilometer 3, Asin Road, despite objections from the property's caretaker, Benedict Valenciano, who called 911 for assistance.

Valenciano said some members of the group identified themselves as belonging to a faction of the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA), with some reportedly coming from Kalinga.

He identified Joel Gatchalian as the head of the CPLA's Busay faction and said the group included former CPLA members and a 69-year-old woman.

Responding personnel from Police Station 9, the City Mobile Force Company, and the Mobile Patrol Unit reported that no firearms were used during the incident.

As of writing, the group continued to occupy the property, which covers more than 500 square meters and contains three houses, according to Valenciano.

He said his relatives possess documents supporting their claim to the property, including a deed of sale and property tax receipts.

However, he said they discovered in 2023 that the property's ownership records had been transferred to another name, prompting the dispute that has since become a legal battle.

The case reportedly involves the validity of property documents, reconveyance, and damages. A request for a preliminary injunction is also pending.

An initial dialogue between the parties is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, October 22, with Baguio City Councilor and lawyer Jose Molintas expected to serve as mediator.

Meanwhile, authorities are continuing to secure the premises to prevent further confrontation while the parties pursue the legal proceedings.