By Sam Ramos
On November 23, 2024, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in the Caraga Region (DAR-13) distributed land titles and loan condonations to agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) from Agusan del Norte, marking a significant step in advancing their rights to land ownership and financial freedom.
A total of 1, 486 land titles covering 1, 860.5647 hectares of agricultural land were awarded to 1, 030 ARBs from 10 towns and two cities in the region. This distribution is part of the DAR’s target to deliver at least 50, 000 land titles to ARBs by the end of the year, a promise made by DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III.
The event was led by DAR Undersecretary Amihilda Sangcopan and DAR-13 Director Merlita Capinpuyan. One of the notable recipients, Ruben Aliño, a 68-year-old farmer from Barangay Maguinda, Butuan City, expressed his gratitude upon receiving his land title for over one hectare of land. “Finally, the DAR has released the title of my land. I am thankful to the government for helping me realize my dream. Now, I am a certified landowner, a farmer who owns the land he tills,” Aliño said in an interview.
In addition to the land titles, 517 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROM) were granted to 381 ARBs, covering ₱ 10, 948,576.86 in loan balances. This release is the first in the Caraga Region and follows the New Agrarian Emancipation Act (Republic Act 11953) signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in July 2023. The Act aims to provide financial relief to ARBs by condoning their outstanding loans.
The program reflects the government’s continued commitment to improving the lives of ARBs and advancing the goals of agrarian reform in the country.