Farmers in Zamboanga del Sur Receive Land Titles, Debt Relief, and Farm Equipment in Landmark Agrarian Reform Drive

Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte — In a historic gathering held on July 11, 2025, hundreds of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) from across the Zamboanga Peninsula convened at the Cultural and Convention Center in Dipolog City to witness a regionwide distribution of land titles, certificates of condonation with mortgage release, and farm equipment marking a significant milestone in the national government’s agrarian reform initiative.

Among the beneficiaries were 124 farmers from Zamboanga del Sur who received a total of 158 E-Titles under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) Project of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). These individual land titles officially converted collective Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) into individual ownership, granting ARBs full rights to cultivate, manage, and develop their farmlands under their own names.

“This is more than just land distribution it’s about empowerment,” a DAR official remarked during the ceremony. “Through individual titling, we give farmers true ownership and the freedom to shape their own agricultural future.”

Equally significant was the awarding of 978 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROMs) to 782 ARBs in the region, effectively condoning over ₱58.8 million in agrarian-related debts. This debt relief is expected to ease the financial burden of farmers and provide them with a fresh start to focus on improving farm productivity and household income.

To further support the agricultural sector, DAR Zamboanga del Sur turned over ₱3.73 million worth of farm machinery and equipment to 13 selected Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) in the province. The distributed machinery is seen as a game-changer in streamlining farm operations, enhancing productivity, and strengthening the economic resilience of farming communities.

The ceremony was met with heartfelt gratitude and joy from farmers who, for years, had struggled with land insecurity, debt burdens, and a lack of mechanized resources. Many described the event as the beginning of a brighter and more sustainable future in agriculture.

“This is the change we’ve long been praying for,” shared one ARB, holding his land title with pride. “Now that we have full ownership, freedom from debt, and better tools, we can truly focus on making our farms thrive.”

DAR Zamboanga del Sur expressed deep appreciation to all participating ARBs whose cooperation and active engagement made the event a success. The agency emphasized the importance of continued partnership between the government and farmers in ensuring the lasting success of agrarian reform in the country.

This comprehensive distribution effort reaffirms the government's commitment not only to land reform but also to supporting the long-term livelihood and well-being of Filipino farmers underscoring that genuine agrarian reform goes beyond land it builds dignity, hope, and opportunity for farming communities across the nation.

Source: DAR Zamboanga del Sur 

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