College of Social Work and Community Development Library
The book explores the plight of Kamukhaan, a small village in Davao del Sur, Philippines, severely affected by pesticide aerial spraying from a neighboring banana plantation. Despite the evident poor health and environmental conditions, initial efforts to document and publicize these issues led to significant backlash, including a libel suit and harassment of community members who testified against the plantation. Despite the legal and social challenges, including the eventual closure of a local newspaper and further legal threats in the form of a civil damages suit, the book details ongoing efforts to gather and share information about the community’s dire situation. It aims to raise awareness both locally and internationally, highlighting the adverse effects of pesticide use and the urgent need for support and intervention.