Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur — In a historic move to uplift the agrarian sector, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) distributed 8,722 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROM) to 7,225 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur on December 23, 2024. The ceremonial turnover was held at the Naliyagan Complex, Provincial Capitol Grounds.
The certificates cover 12,227 hectares of agricultural land, representing the condonation of P289 million worth of land amortization debt. The landmark initiative stems from Republic Act No. 11953, also known as the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, signed into law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. in July 2023.
Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino graced the occasion, underscoring the significance of the event for the farming community. “This is a symbol of what the national government is doing,” Tolentino said. “This is an opportunity to start anew and make it an instrument, as well as a part of your success.”
Representing DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, Undersecretary for Mindanao Affairs Amihilda J. Sangcopan and Regional Director Atty. Merlita S. Capinpuyan led the distribution alongside other DAR officials.
The COCROM serves as a formal certification that ARBs are relieved of their land amortization debt, allowing them to focus on maximizing agricultural productivity and improving their livelihoods. This debt relief is part of the government’s broader strategy to empower farmers and boost the agricultural sector’s role in economic development.
The beneficiaries hailed the initiative as a turning point for their families and communities. “This means a lot for us farmers,” said one recipient. “We can now concentrate on our crops without the burden of debt holding us back.”
Republic Act No. 11953 is seen as a game-changer for agrarian reform, aiming to alleviate financial pressures on ARBs while fostering self-reliance and growth in rural areas. The DAR plans to continue its distribution efforts across the country, ensuring that all eligible farmers benefit from the condonation program.
The event concluded with a renewed sense of hope and determination among the ARBs, symbolizing a fresh chapter in their journey toward agricultural and economic empowerment.