MANILA, Philippines — Multinational firm Green Future Innovations, Inc. (GFII) has become more determined to pursue its 11,000-hectare sugar plantation for bio-ethanol plant in San Mariano, Isabela as multi-sectoral groups rally behind the project, which is expected to uplift poverty in this province.

Multisectoral groups, composed of local residents, farmers, local officials and religious have called for the creation of a “zone for peace” in line with their clamor to promote peace in the area.

The groups even signed a petition for the zone for peace which was signed by more than 10,000 participants to reiterate their cry for peace and development in the municipality. A copy of the petition will be given to President Benigno Aquino III, members of the House of Representatives, and the Commission on Human Rights to name a few.

Jose Wanol, president of the multi-sectoral group “ALAMAT KA” who is also a signatory to the petition said their signature is proof of their support to those who bring progress and development in the municipality.

"We all know how San Mariano was in the past, and what it is today. Let us not let anything happen to hamper our road to success. We should support moves for change and development that is right in our midst.” Wanol said.

Likewise, members of the Senior Citizens Group are in support of the petition. “San Mariano is finally headed for advancement with the sugarcane plantation and the bio ethanol plant. We should back all plans to fight poverty so that we can lead a

prosperous and peaceful life.” Retired Colonel Villamor Tamang said.

Patriotic Action for Democracy, Equality, and Reform (PADER) Vice Chairman Roland Lee belittled the issues being hurled against Ecofuel.

"We have studied the issues raised against Ecofuel and we realized that these are just false statements meant to discourage the residents. We stand by Ecofuel and Green Future's project as we can attest to the contributions they have given to our town," Lee said.

Isabela parish priest Fr. Virgilio Velasco participated in the peace gathering. “It is the right of the people to look for a better source of income for their families and I believe that the bio ethanol project is their chance to do that." he noted.

For his part, San Mariano Mayor Edgar Go thanked the participants and reiterated his support for the bio ethanol project in their town.

A peace gathering was also done in line with the celebration of the International Human Rights Day as the residents of San Mariano fight for their right to a decent living.

GFII has jumpstarted social and economic development in the province and adjacent areas. The plant will produce ethanol from an 11,000-hectare sugarcane plantation in and around San Mariano’s 30 kilometer radius. The project has yet to be completed, but this early, farmers are already reaping the benefits of progress, as they have received financial and technological assistance from the sugarcane plantation managed by Ecofuel Land Development Inc.

Once the bioethanol plant is operational, more jobs would be available. Given the employment opportunity, majority of the residents including local officials are in favor of the project.(BCM)