DAR pays tribute to triumphant implementation of the agrarian reform program
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) celebrated the 36th anniversary of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) at the Provincial Agrarian Reform Office, P-5, San Francisco, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, held from May 18-20.
DAR in Agusan del Sur, with the most number of agrarian reform farmers, highlighted how the department was able bolster the implementation of the CARP and addressed the disheartening situation of the farmers who invested significant effort in caring for their plants and animals however they struggled in selling their products and failed reap adequate financial rewards.
The Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), established under Republic Act No. 6657, epitomized the redistribution of agricultural land to farmers who do not have their own lands to cultivate and ended as tenants, addressing societal inequities. The celebration was a pivotal moment to reflect on the triumphs and enduring impact of agrarian reform.
The 36th CARP Anniversary Celebration included a press conference attended actively by media partners from Agusan del Sur and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) - Agusan del Sur. Discussions were focused on the achievements and challenges of DAR - Agusan del Sur, particularly on equitable and progressive growth in the agricultural sector. The panel included Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) II Engineer Loida Jones, PARPO I Rudy S. Solomon, Atty. Oliver Baylosis, chief of the Legal Services Division; OIC-Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer (CARPO) Joven Pizarro of the Program Beneficiaries Development Division, and CARPO Ruth Galvez of the Land Tenure Improvement Division.
"We have been recognized for the 3rd time as the top National Marketing Sales Awardee," Engr. Jones proudly stated.
This award signified DAR - Agusan del Sur's dedication and capability in serving the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) of the province.
"The greatest milestone we can claim so far for the agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) is marketing their products. This remains a significant challenge for both farmers and our institution, ensuring that government funds allocated to them are effectively utilized. Their success is our success," Pizarro remarked.
They also showcased their produce in trade fair invitations and other government activities that require their services for added exposure for their organization. The three-day celebration centered around the 2nd Pasigarbo Tu Produktong Agraryo Trade Fair, featuring premium offerings from ARBs. The trade fair promoted the local products and also increased the farmers' income.
"We also partnered with the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) to ensure that our ARBs are covered. Their crops, livestock, and farm equipment are insured through the ARBOs. This enabled them to effectively manage insurance coverage for their cooperative members and encouraged other farmers in the community to do the same. In the event of a calamity, they are well-prepared to process insurance claims efficiently, having acquired the necessary knowledge and accessibility to claim benefits from the insurance company," Pizarro said.
Moreover, a community-centric medical mission was launched, providing complimentary healthcare services to farmers and organizers, emphasizing the significance of well-being. Concurrently, a gender and development (GAD) symposium, Zumba sessions, an employee night, essay writing contests, and various activities were organized. (KKG, PIA-Agusan del Sur)
