Agusan del Norte, November 23, 2024 – A total of 1,030 farmers in Agusan del Norte are now proud landowners after receiving 517 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROM) and 969 land titles during a historic simultaneous distribution event by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). The ceremony, held at the Balanghai Hotel and Convention Center in Butuan City, marked a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to empower agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).
Of the beneficiaries, 381 ARBs received their COCROMs, certifying that their land amortization debts—amounting to ₱10,948,576.86—have been condoned under Republic Act 11953. This landmark law aims to liberate farmers from the financial burden of land amortization, fulfilling a decades-long promise of genuine agrarian reform.
In addition, 649 ARBs were awarded 938 individual e-Titles under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (Project SPLIT) and 31 Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) through the Land Tenure Security Program (LTSP). These titles cover a combined area of 1,337.5998 hectares, providing the farmers with secure ownership and enhanced opportunities for economic growth.
Representing DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, Undersecretary Amihilda J. Sangcopan of the Office for Mindanao Affairs personally conferred the documents to the ARBs. In her address, Usec. Sangcopan celebrated the farmers’ critical role in the country’s development, referring to them as “superstars” for their invaluable contributions.
She also reflected on her time in Congress, highlighting the significance of RA 11953. “When I was still in Congress, one of our aspirations was to pass a genuine agrarian reform law. For me, RA 11953 represents that goal. Former President Ferdinand E. Marcos envisioned freeing farmers from the bondage of the soil. Today, this vision is realized as you now truly own the lands you till.”
The distribution event underscores the government’s continued commitment to agrarian reform, ensuring that farmers not only own their lands but also enjoy financial relief. With the certificates and titles now in their hands, the farmers of Agusan del Norte are set to embark on a new chapter of empowerment and progress.