Zamboanga del Norte — The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) achieved a significant milestone on November 21, 2024, by successfully installing 42 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in Hacienda Quiaoit, granting them peaceful possession of their awarded lands. The event was held in Lower Gumay, Piñan, Zamboanga del Norte, marking a momentous day for the ARBs of La Finca Argo-Industrial Corporation.
The installation, executed under a writ by Sheriff III Anne Andresita Agura, officially transferred tenurial rights to the beneficiaries, covering a total of 109.0912 hectares. This event was spearheaded by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Rizzel B. Villanueva, CESO V, along with Land Tenure Improvement (LTI) Division OIC-CARPO Teodulo Yanoyan Jr., reinforcing DAR’s commitment to empowering farmer-beneficiaries through land distribution and agrarian justice.
In his address, PARPO II Villanueva encouraged the ARBs to embrace this opportunity with unity and responsibility. “These lands are not just a gift but a responsibility. Thrive together, making your land productive,” Villanueva urged, emphasizing the vital role of agricultural productivity in uplifting the community.
Municipal Assessor Enrich Cunanan also reminded the ARBs of their tax obligations associated with land ownership, highlighting the importance of compliance in fostering long-term success. Meanwhile, MARPO Anjanette Nemiaga praised the beneficiaries for their dedication and urged them to maximize the potential of their lands to enhance their quality of life and contribute to the region’s growth.
A significant advantage for the 42 ARBs is the condonation of their loan obligations, providing financial relief and allowing them to focus on cultivating their awarded lands. This effort aligns with DAR’s broader goal of reducing barriers to agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for farmer-beneficiaries.
The event was attended by other key stakeholders, including Legal Officer ARPO II Jeanette Eguia, Engr. Rocel Acevedo, Charma Tinaan, and members of Project SPLIT and the survey team, underscoring the collaborative effort behind this achievement.
The farmer-beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude to DAR for transforming their long-awaited dream into reality. With land ownership now secured, they look forward to improving their livelihoods and contributing to the agricultural advancement of Zamboanga del Norte.
This installation underscores DAR’s unwavering dedication to agrarian reform, highlighting its mission to promote social justice and sustainable development in rural communities across the Philippines.