Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Conrado Estrella III led the ceremonial distribution of land titles, debt relief certificates, and essential support services to more than 5,000 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) from Bohol and Cebu at the Mandaue Cultural and Sports Complex on Thursday.
Estrella highlighted that the distribution of Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs), electronic titles (e-titles), and Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROMs) represents a significant milestone for thousands of farmers in Central Visayas. “With secure land tenure, freedom from debt, and access to vital support, our ARBs can now look forward to a more dignified and productive life,” he stated. He also reaffirmed the commitment to distribute 400,000 land titles nationwide this year.
The awarded documents provide legal ownership of agricultural lands and eliminate long-standing debts, thereby enhancing land tenure security, increasing farm productivity, and improving the livelihoods of ARBs and their families.
In Bohol, 159 ARBs received 239 land titles covering 215.65 hectares, while 1,741 farmers were granted 2,464 COCROMs, clearing PHP50.42 million in land-related debts across 2,092.60 hectares. In Cebu, 326 ARBs were awarded 570 CLOAs and e-titles for 624.97 hectares. Notably, DAR issued 3,858 COCROMs to 3,544 farmers, writing off PHP284.54 million in unpaid amortizations over 5,170.02 hectares.
As part of its support services, DAR also provided a PHP1.5 million tractor to the Carmen Farmers Association, Inc., and a PHP300,000 delivery vehicle to the Canlumampao Agrarian Reform Program Association, aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and logistical capacity for ARB organizations (ARBOs).
This initiative is part of DAR’s ongoing implementation of Republic Act 11953, the “New Agrarian Emancipation Act,” signed into law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in July 2023. The law condones unpaid land amortizations and interests for ARBs while ensuring they receive institutional support services to improve their economic conditions.