DAREA - Capiz holds blood letting activity
by: Carlette Caldeo Pretta - DAR-Capiz
Publishing Date: July 15, 2010 (08:38 AM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform Employees Association (DAREA)-Capiz Chapter headed by its president Roel F. Flamiano, with the cooperation of the Capiz Agrarian Reform Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CARE-MPC) and in coordination with the Philippine National Red Cross-Capiz Chapter conducted a blood letting activity during the Employees' Day celebration of DAR-Capiz on July 2 at San Antonio Resort, Baybay, Roxas City.
The blood letting project of DAREA started last year which is aimed at providing further service to its members during emergencies as well as their immediate family members who were named beneficiaries of the project.
Red Cross representatives were able to collect 16 bags of blood from 15 DAR employees and one of the visitors. All 16 blood cards were deposited to DAREA for use of DAREA members and their beneficiaries in time of emergencies.
Dr. Charlie Robles, Chairman of the Board, Philippine National Red Cross-Capiz Chapter, in his speech before DAR employees, encouraged them to do the blood letting activity more often instead of having it once a year.
DAREA has formulated certain policies and guidelines which will govern the manner of releases and replacement of blood cards in order to sustain the project. DAREA looks forward to providing its members with strengthened health care services by having blood cards readily available when needed.
Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Regina L. Caspillo, CESO V of DAR-Capiz commended the effort of the organization as according to her this is one way of complying with one's social responsibilities.
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DAR - Capiz Celebrates Employees' Day
by: Carlette Caldeo Pretta - DAR-Capiz
Publishing Date: July 15, 2010 (08:06 AM)
DAR employees in the province of Capiz took time out from work July 2 to hold Employees' Day in celebration of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPER) 1st anniversary.
The whole day affair was held at San Antonio Resort, Baybay, Roxas City which started with the celebration of the Holy Mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Eugene Argoncillo.
Assistant Regional Director for Operations Felicidad Banares graced the affair which was highlighted by the Blood Letting Activity spearheaded by the Department of Agrarian Reform Employees' Association (DAREA) in coordination with the Philippine National Red Cross-Capiz Chapter and with the cooperation of Capiz Agrarian Reform Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CARE-MPC).
Dr. Charlie Robles, Board of Director PNRC-Capiz gave a short lecture to make DAR employees more aware of the benefits of donating blood as well as the status of blood donation and utilization in the province. A total of 16 bags of blood were collected from 15 DAR employees and one of the visitors.
Director II Cynthia P.A. Gellegani of the Civil Service Commission in the province of Capiz also gave a lecture on the updates and latest issuances of the commission.
Outstanding employees were also given citations and awards for their accomplishment in Land Tenure Improvement (LTI). PMEU Head Vivia Ll Gelera determined the awardees based on the performances of the Senior Agrarian Reform Program Technicians (SARPTechs) and Agrarian Reform Program Technician (ARPTechs) and Municipal Agrarian Reform Offices (MAROs).
Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Regina L. Caspillo, CESO V cited the recipients for their valuable contribution to the accomplishment of the province in CY 2009 and posted a challenge to the non-awardees that if they would only put their hearts into what they are doing, they too can become future awardees.
Another awardee during that special day was farmer-beneficiary William Dador of Cabungahan, Maayon, Capiz who brought honor to the province and the whole Western Visayas when he was given special award as outstanding Agrarian Reform Beneficiary by DAR Central Office during the Awarding Ceremony for Outstanding ARBs, Cooperatives and Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs) at the Megatrade Hall, SM Megamall, Manila last June 25.
The afternoon was filled with fun, prizes and surprises as DAREA through its President Roel F. Flamiano and other DAREA officers initiated BINGO Sosyal wherein everybody took part and played in full concentration hoping to bag a prize.
A number of door prizes were raffled for the employees which concluded the celebration.
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DARRO XI celebrates P-noy's and new DAR Chief assumption
by: Information Unit / DARRO XI
Publishing Date: July 8, 2010 (3:26 PM)
Davao City - Reminiscent of the millions of Filipinos who flocked to the Quezon Memorial Circle to celebrate the country's 15th President, His Excellency Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Cojuangco Aquino III, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Regional Office XI and its employees led by no less than its Regional Director Datu Yusoph B. Mama held a simple yet meaningful programme at a local hotel to celebrate P-Noy's assumption. Equally important to the celebration was P-Noy's choice of the man who will steer the DAR under CARPER era - Atty. Virgilio "Gil" Delos Reyes.
The DARRO XI family is one with the nation in hoping that P-Noy will be able to lead in delivering Filipinos from poverty and serve as a shining example of good governance. Messages of support for Pres. Noynoy and the new DAR Chief poured in from RD Mama, RARAD Condez and the various division chiefs. Song numbers and lots of fun and laughter added spice to the memorable occasion. Fund scarcity was no hindrance as heads of the different divisions chipped in to ensure the event's success at no expense to the government.
Director Mama expressed his gratitude to his regional staff for the support they have showed to the new administration. "We know how this administration values good governance and selflessness, that is why we took it upon ourselves to make a personal contribution just to share our joy with our co-employees", Director Mama said.
The best performers received tokens of appreciation from Dir. Mama who also led the community singing, thereby ending the affair on a high note.
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DavOr pomelo adjudged best in the country
by: Information Unit / DARRO XI
Publishing Date: July 8, 2010 (2:09 PM)
The famous pomelo of the province of Davao Oriental was adjudged Best Fresh Produce in the just-concluded nationwide 9th Agraryo Trade Fair (ATF) held at SM Mega Mall, Mandaluyong City. Bannering this year's ATF is the theme "Umuunlad na Kabuhayan, Masaganang Sakahan, tugon sa Globalisasyon at Nagbabagong Klima'.
Known for its juiciness and tangy sweet taste, Menzi pomelo was first produced by Menzi Farmers Cooperative (MEFCO) in 1995, having the town of Mati as its first market area.
Miguelito Angana, MEFCO chairman said that the award will serve as an inspiration for the organization to strive more for excellence and formulate better marketing strategies. It is currently undertaking steps to make their product more salelable with improved packaging and appropriate technology. Angana proudly added that the market for their pomelo is steadily growing, reaching other Davao provinces, Cebu, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Iligan and Metro Manila.
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DAR starts reorganizing BARCs in Samar
by: Jose Alsmith Soria
Publishing Date: July 7, 2010 (12:20 PM)
The field officials of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Samar started reorganizing/organizing Barangay Agrarian Reform Committees (BARCs) in their respective areas.
In this province, around 158 BARCS are slated to be put in place in priority areas with bulk of landholdings set for distribution this year, This was the urgent order of Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) Gregorio Fiel Jr. after the new directives and guidelines for its organization was received.
The BARC is a multi sectoral body that is composed of representatives from sectors of landowners, farmers, organizations, association, r rural women, indigenous people, (if present in the area) the LGU and CARP implementing agencies in barangay level. They are supposed to be the partner of DAR in CARP implementation and shall serve as a "management team" in the barangay which shall direct efforts and activities of the people towards common objectives e.g. land distribution and accessing of needed support services.
We see the need to strengthen the BARCs especially with the extension of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform program under RA 9700, where the critical role of the BARC is re-emphasized as mechanism for parcipatory development and community based program implementation. The Act highlights the role of the BARC in certifying and attesting under oath the qualified beneficiaries," said Fiel.
As of press time, while the Municipal Agrarian Officers (MAROs) in different towns of SAMAR continue the task of re-organization/organizing, the BARC Provincial Core Team, on the other hand, is dispersed for the conduct of Training Needs Survey on the competence that the agency can impart to the officers of the newly organized BARCs.
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DAR Sorsogon online to serve
Publishing Date: June 23, 2010 (9:50 AM)
The latest issues about the DAR (Department of Agrarian Reform) Sorsogon can be found in DAR's newest site www.dar.gov.ph/sorsogon. This webpage was created to assist the students and researchers with their studies especially in information and data gathering, so that, they don't need to travel just to get these in the DAR's Office at Brgy. Balogo, Sorsogon City.
DAR Sorsogon's website was officially launched by Roseller R. Olayres, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II on October 20, 2009 along with the launching of other DAR Regional and Provincial Offices' websites nationwide.
Available data/information that can be obtained in dar.gov.ph/sorsogon includes: the history of the organization of DAR Sorsogon; its organizational structure; the provincial officers; the three major components of CARP; accomplishment reports; DAR Ladies Association; Gender and Development; Human Resource Development; DAR Employees Association; PDMASP (President Diosdado Macapagal Agrarian Scholarship Program); Foreign Assisted Projects; Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries' Stories; news; and many more that will be added in the coming days.
The presence of website is very helpful to Sorsogueños in many ways: there is no need for the students and other clientele to travel far just to obtain information because they can get it from the site through the internet; the media can pick the latest issue from the news corner of the DAR Sorsogon website; inspiring success stories of farmers; the status of accomplishments are made transparent to the public for their monitoring; and for those who have queries, they can send their messages to the email provided in the site for the response of the webteam.
Barely a year since its creation, the DAR WEB Assessment and Strategic Planning Workshop was made in order to review and evaluate its performance. This was held at Cebu City by DAR Central Office - National Web Team chaired by Atty. Jim G. Coleto. The event was attended by 31 provinces from Luzon including Sorsogon. Each province has its own DAR Web Team Structure. In Sorsogon it is composed of only three who maintains its operation. The Chairperson: Roseller R. Olayres, PARO II; and 2 members: Gilbert Goingo and Alura Arbolente. Goingo is assigned in uploading and posting of the latest reports from PMEU (Provincial Monitoring and Evaluation Unit), while Arbolente is assigned in the writing and provision of news and other valuable information. "The less member in the web team, the easier to update and maintain its orderliness," this is their motto especially when it comes to design and color selection.
Now that DAR Sorsogon is already online, everybody is invited to visit the site to learn for more about the department in general and about DARPO Sorsogon in particular.
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Bicol Region joins Nationwide Mural Painting
by: Lut Arbolente
Publishing Date: June 18, 2010 (10:34 AM)
ELEVEN Regions in the Philippines including Bicol joined the Department of Agrarian Reform 2010 on-the-spot Mural Painting Contest held at Quezon City Memorial Circle in preparation for the 22nd Anniversary of Comprehensive Agrarian Reform.
"Buhay sa Bukid ay Masaya kung may Sipag at Pag-aaruga" - that is the theme of the mural painting contest which every participants must portray in their piece. The contest conducted by DAR-PAS (Department of Agrarian Reform - Public Affairs Staff) headed by Dir. Hugo D. Yonzon III through the courtesy of Boysen Paint is aimed to sustain the interest and attention among students on the implementation of the CARP extension with reform by letting them interpret agrarian reform in visual art.
Despite the sweltering hot on that day, where temperature reached 38 degree, the 3-day Mural Painting Contest goes on. Among the participants from Bicol Region are Eunice Ann C. Negrete; Resmundo G. Demdam; Ronnie B. Borbo; Froilan B. Barbacena; and Jake L. Roldan; All of them are graduating students of Fine Arts in the Aquinas University, Legazpi City. They use cubism style of painting. On the 8x12ft canvas they draw an assortment of farm and aquatic products which were placed on a gear, and men were lifting it. Watching scrupulously their piece, a touch of Albay could be noticed by a true Bicolano, that is the color blue Mayon Volcano behind.
According to Dir. Yonzon, every participant is already a winner because each one has finished the work on time. All of the paintings are amazingly wonderful. It was a tough job for the judges. "For me, all of you are winners and best," Bayani Jose, one of the judges said. True enough because they only differ in points. Region 11 got the first prize worth 150,000 pesos; Region 1 got the second prize worth 100,000 pesos; Region IV-A got the third prize worth 75,000 pesos; and the rest got consolation prizes amongst which are regions III; CAR; Bicol; IX; X; VI; IV-B; and XIII.
They were judged based on the following criteria: relevance (appropriateness to the theme) 30%; composition (technical quality) 30%; visual impact (extent and influence to public) 25%; and originality (uniqueness) 15%.
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Capiz Produces another PDMASP Cum Laude
by: Carlette Caldeo-Pretta
Publishing Date: June 18, 2010 (10:09 AM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform-Capiz province has produced another cum laude this year in the person 21 year old Reem L. Berondo of Mambusao, Capiz, one of the scholars under the President Diosdado Macapagal Agrarian Scholarship Program of the department, now dubbed as Programang Agraryo Iskolar.
Berondo successfully finished her five-year course in Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering at the Capiz State University, Burias Campus. She is one of the five PDMASP scholars of Capiz who graduated this year.
Becoming an Agricultural Engineer has been her parents' dream for her which also became her personal choice. Her goal was to finish the course to make her parents proud of her, becoming a cum laude was way beyond her expectations.
Born to Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Oscar and housewife Rosita Berondo on July 1, 1989, Reem as she is fondly called by her family and friends is the eldest in the family of five. As such, it was always her dream to finish her studies and help her younger siblings acquire education as well.
Reem has been a consistent honor pupil during her elementary days at the Burias Elementary School and was First Honorable Mention when she graduated from High School at Capiz State University, Burias Campus.
In achieving her simple and humble dream for the family, PDMASP became her hope. As she applied for the program five years back, she was determined not to let the opportunity go to waste. PDMASP Provincial Coordinator Mary Grace B. Deocampo reveals that Reem was one of the provincial scholars who showed a deep sense of responsibility and determination towards her studies.
Reem dreams of becoming part of the Department of Agrarian Reform if given the opportunity as she sees working with the small farmers and farm workers a dignified and noble job. When asked about her view on the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, Reem says that she hopes that the program stays so that more farmers will get the opportunity to own lands and improve their earning capacity as well as the living condition of their families.
PARO II Regina L. Caspillo, CESO V of DAR-Capiz proudly says that Berondo is the fifth PDMASP scholars of Capiz who graduated cum laude. She further says that if opportunities are put into good use, one will surely reap success…and Reem is one good example that must inspire other children of our farmer beneficiaries.
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DAR-Aklan gears up for CARP Anniversary Celebration
by:Grace Quimpo
Publishing Date: June 10, 2010 (2:52 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform in Aklan will hold a simple celebration to mark the 22nd year of CARP anniversary and the 2nd year of CARPER (Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms) on June 18, 2010.
Atty. Daniel Y. Martelino, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II stressed that more than ever, the DAR in Aklan was able to raise the quality of lives of its agrarian reform beneficiaries in Aklan by distributing 21,324 hectares of lands to 21,296 farmer beneficiaries.
Through DAR and CARP in Aklan, farm-to-market roads (FMRs) and bridges had improved, giving farmers and commuters the easy access and timely opportunity to market their products . To date, DAR-Aklan facilitated the construction of infrastructure projects such as farm-to market roads, bridges, irrigation, post harvest facilities and multi-purpose pavements with a total amount of P223,836, 514.10.
The towns of Malay and Buruanga will be getting an estimated P140 M infrastructure projects like farm to market roads and communal irrigation system under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Program II which had its groundbreaking activity last month in the aforesaid towns.
All these and more, makes DAR-Aklan proud that the program had a positive impact on the lives of Aklanon farmers.
In 1988, CARP was enacted by Congress as the centerpiece program of the Aquino administration. It served as a social justice program to ensure equal access to wealth and basic services such as land, food, education and employment. In June 2009, CARP was extended for another five (5) years as a result of the enactment of RA 9700 - An Act Strengthening the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), Extending the Acquisition and Distribution of All Agricultural Lands, Instituting Necessary Reforms, Amending for the Purpose Certain Provisions of Republic Act No. 6657, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law of 1988, As Amended, and Appropriating Funds Therefor.
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109 farmer-beneficiaries get land titles in Kitcharao and Jabonga Town
by:Gil E. Miranda
Publishing Date: June 10, 2010 (2:43 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Provincial office in Agusan del Norte issued land titles in the municipalities of Kitcharao and Jabonga under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reform (CARPer) held at Barangay Beltran, Jabonga on May 24, 2010.
Some forty (40) farmer beneficiaries from Barangays Bangayan and San Isidro of Kitcharao and sixty-nine (69) farmers beneficiaries from Barangays Beltran and Maraiging of Jabonga received Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) covering a total area of 73.9060 hectares for the municipality of Kitcharao and 85.0077 hectares for Jabonga.
DAR CARAGA Regional Director Faisar A. Mambuay, CESO IV, personally handed-over the Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) to the Farmer-Beneficiaries with the assistance of DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Andre B. Atega, CEO VI.
RD Mambuay congratulated the new landowners and expressed gratefulness to the implementers of CARP in the province of Agusan del Norte.
PARO II Atega commended the new landowners for the land they can now call their own and urged them to make use of the opportunities it offers by working hard to make the lands productive and enjoy the benefits.
It was attended by Local Chief Executive, Hon. Mayor Aristotle E. Montante of Kitcharao and Hon. Mayor Glecerio M. Monton of Jabonga.
A huge wave of farmer-beneficiaries attended and voiced their desire to thank DAR for its commitment to improve the living condition of the farmers to become successful.
The province of Agusan del Norte has already distributed a total of 25,692.0467 hectares or 69% accomplishment versus the working scope of 37,396.6674 hectares, involving 14,266 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries, leaving a Land Acquisition and Distribution (LAD) CARPer Balance of 11,704.6207 hectares, or 31% to be distributed to an estimated 6,487 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries in the next five years.
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DAR Cebu conducts BARC orientation seminar and mass oath-taking
by:Rosanna Gay S. Visitacion
Publishing Date: June 10, 2010 (2:28 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Cebu Province conducted an Orientation Seminar on Barangay Agrarian Reform Council (BARC) for the BARC officers from the different BARC organization in the province of Cebu, this is line with the strengthening of the BARC and to ensure that the BARC shall be organized /reorganized as efficient mechanism for grassroots participation in the program implementation.
The BARC is a main partner at the community level for the successful Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) implementation.
Around 530 BARC officers attended the BARC Strengthening and Orientation Seminars and Mass Oath-taking in six (6) batches conducted in Multi-Purpose Hall, Naga City (April 27), Roof Top Municipal Hall , Balamban (April 28), Cogon Sports Complex, Bogo City (April 29), Big Dome, Alcantara (April 30), Training Center Hall Danao City (May 4) and Poblacion, Bantayan Island, Cebu (May 12).
Topics discussed were Legal/Constitutional Basis of CARP, the Roles and Functions of the BARC, the major program components of CARP and the salient features of the Republic Act 9700 the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms( CARPER).
The resource persons were OIC Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO I) Paulino R. Tudlasan, Jr., Regional Agrarian Reform Adjudicator Atty. Rosalio T. Kintanar, Provincial Adjudicator Clerk of Board Bonifacio Labra, Legal Officers Edgar Guanzon, Ramon Araneta, Antonietta Quidam, Dionesio Ibarra, and OIC Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer (CARPO) for Beneficiaries Development and Coordination Division (BDCD) Varinia B. Fabillar.
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DAR inaugurates new coop building
by:Aileen Alaban-Villaseca
Publishing Date: May 19, 2010 (4:23 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform through its provincial office in Negros Oriental and the Samac United Farmers for Agrarian Reform Multi-purpose Coop (SUFARMPUCO) will inaugurate its new coop building on May 19, 2010 in Samac, Mabinay, Negros Oriental.
This coop building is now owned by SUFARMPUCO with a construction costs of Three Hundred Thousand Pesos (P300,000.00).
The inauguration will be attended by Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Stephen M. Leonidas, CESO V; some of DAR'S Provincial staff; COOP members and Ma. Rosario Ocay, Samac, Barangay Captain/ABC President.
Also, this inauguration marks also the coop's 11th Anniversary.
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ADB impressed of DAR's performance
by:Jose Alsmith L. Soria
Publishing Date: May 19, 2010 (3:24 PM)
TACLOBAN CITY - Representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) were impressed with the way the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Region-8 implements its programs and projects as well as the local government of Balangiga which is included in the second phase of the Agrarian Reform Community Project (ARCP-2).
DAR sourced out funding from ADB under a loan package by the national government for the implementation of ARCP-2 in 149 agrarian reform communities (ARCs) in 18 provinces nationwide to improve the quality of life of the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in these areas.
Agustina Musa, the head of the ADB mission who were here recently for the second time to review the implementation process under ARCP-2 based on the standard of the loan provider, praised DAR's initiative to effectively carry out the project particularly on its agricultural enterprise development component such as the active participation of non-government organizations (NGOs) and private firms in providing technical support and ready market for the ARBs' products, in a conference at the Leyte Park Hotel.
Present during the conference were representatives from the NGOs - Alay Buhay, East-West Seed Co., VICTO National, IDPG and the private firms - SC Global Coco Products, Inc. and the Early-7 Marketing.
Early this year, SC Global Coco Products, Inc. signed a marketing contract with three ARB organizations: Omaganhan Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Inc.; the Zaragosa Agrarian Reform Cooperative and the Boroc-Ipil Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Primary Multi Purpose Cooperative for the banana and other high value products of the cooperatives, while the Early-7 Marketing entered a marketing agreement with the Sto. Niño-Visares Multi Purpose Cooperative for the production and sale of dried cassava chips by the latter.
The ADB mission was likewise glad to note that the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) is also ready to provide credit support to the ARBs thru its agri-cash program.
Meanwhile, the ADB mission was also impressed with the community-driven development approach of implementing programs and projects by the Balangiga LGU.
The ADB officials always emphasize the sustainability of the project even beyond the 5-year implementation period of the ARCP-2 which will end in 2014, and they believe that this could be attained with the community-driven development approach in partnership with the private sector organizations.
During their visit here, Musa and the other ADB officials proceeded to the Balangiga ARC for the field inspection of the site where a proposed 1.6-kilometer farm-to-market road will be implemented.
This project is expected to improve production and increase household income of some 1,348 households in the area including those of the 796 ARBs here.
Although, Musa was satisfied with the overall performance in relation to ARCP-2 implementation in Region-8, she suggested that the private sector organizations form into a consortium to strengthen further their roles and enhance commitments.
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AREDP-SICAD intensifies support to Biliran coco-farmers
by: Noel Salloman and Ismael Aya-ay
Publishing Date: May 19, 2010 (2:58 PM)
NAVAL, BILIRAN - Considered to be among the poorest provinces in the country, Biliran thru selected agrarian reform communities (ARCs) continues to receive support from the ARB Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Development Program-Sustainable Integrated Coconut Area Development ((AREDP-SICAD) as part of the numerous assistances extended by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) to coconut farmers particularly the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs).
Last week, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) Elisea Orapa disclosed that the federation of ARC cooperatives in this province received a shredding machine worth P70,000 for the farmers' bio-organic fertilizer production.
The machine fabricated by the Visayas State University (VSU) and jointly funded under the PCA-Coconut Genetic Network and the AREDP-SICAD, Orapa explained, was accompanied by a rice hull carbonizer which could also be used to boost the project.
In 2009, according to her, AREDP-SICAD released some P287, 000 for the copra trading, bio-organic fertilizer production and banana production activities of the federation.
Next month, Orapa said, the federation is expected to be recipient of some sets of decorticating, twining and combing machines from the Philippine Exports, Inc. for the farmers' proposed coco coir and geo-textile production projects as they plan to expand their operations.
Sam Helerra of the Philippine Export, Inc. assured the federation earlier of technical assistance in their operations and subsequently in the marketing of their products, she added.
AREDP-SICAD was introduced in 2006 and Biliran was so fortunate to be included among the recipients of this program nationwide.
It intends to improve the coconut industry by introducing innovations and appropriate interventions in identified areas in order to increase coconut production and develop high value-adding enterprises, and eventually to establish market linkages locally and internationally.
In Biliran, six ARCs in the municipalities of Biliran, Almeria, Cabucgayan and Caibiran were covered by the program benefiting some 1,500 ARBs.
Initially, 4,000-hectare coco lands here were targeted for rehabilitation, intercropped with bananas.
With the outpouring support extended to these ARBs under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) income of every ARB household is expected to rise as the coconut industry in this island-province is seen to boom in the near future.
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DAR pushing for regular dialogue with ARBs
by: Aileen Alaban-Villaseca
Publishing Date: May 05, 2010 (10:37 AM)
Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Stephen M. Leonidas, CESO V, calls for a regular dialogue/consultation with NGO partners and Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs).
Leonidas said that through regular consultation, we can discuss the updates of CARP Covered lands, the cases closely monitored by NGO partners and resolve the issues and concerns raised by the ARBs.
Recently, Leonidas spoke with two NGO groups namely: Negros Oriental Center for People Empowerment and Development, Inc. (NOCPED) and the Negros Farmers Council (NFC) concerning several issues affecting our ARBs assisted by these two groups.
In DAR's recent dialogue, issues like subdivision survey, installation of ARBs, review of CARP Exemption of Pasture lands and the landholdings under the engagements with partner NGOs were tackled.
Assistant Regional Director for Administration Atty. Johnson Sinco came to Negros Oriental to represent DAR VII Regional Director Rodolfo Inson in one of the dialogues held recently.
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15 Belgian students visits DAR Negros Oriental
by: Aileen Alaban-Villaseca
Publishing Date: May 05, 2010 (10:24 AM)
Recently, Fifteen (15) students from Ghent University visited DAR Provincial Office in Negros Oriental.
During the two-hour forum held at DAR Provincial Office Conference Room, OIC- CARPO BDCD Benjamin E. Empig shared the recent CARP status update in the province of Negros Oriental as of December 31, 2009 and January-March, 2010; he also showcased a successful cooperative in South District Conference (SDC) Albiga, Siaton Negros Oriental which happens to be a recipient of the Belgian Integrated Agrarian Reform Support Programme (BIARSP).
Meanwhile, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Stephen M. Leonidas, CESO V, warmly welcomed the students and interestingly discussed with them the different issues raised by the visiting students regarding our program implementation.
The 15 students from Ghent University in Belgium came to Negros Oriental to immerse themselves in rural and agrarian areas in Mabinay, Bais City, Manjuyod and Bindoy.
This community immersion is part of the students' curriculum program on rural development studies where they are expected to do the practicum of several methodologies (i.e. transect walk, production and seasonal calendar, focused group discussion and key informant interviews) of which the output will become their area study and paper.
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DAR facilitates more projects for Balasan farmers
by: Ma. Yvonne E. Senobin
Publishing Date: April 28, 2010 (03:13 PM)
In a recent site validation conducted by the Department of Agrarian Reform in Balasan, Iloilo specifically in TIMIPAL Agrarian Reform Community (ARC), several projects were considered for funding under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP), Phase III.
As presented by DAR OIC-Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) II, Gideon A. Umadhay, Jr., these projects are the rehabilitation of a 4 kilometer Farm to Market Road (Maya - Tingui-an - Sta. Ana Road), the concreting of the main canals of the Balasan Communal Irrigation System and the construction of Potable Water System.
In support to agriculture and agribusiness development in the area, the project will likewise include for funding the palay trading with the provision of post harvest facilities such as the solar dryer and warehouse.
Complimentary institutional development support will also be funded under the project in terms of trainings to strengthen the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) cooperative.
With the recent development in Balasan, being the second municipality in the Province of Iloilo where the ARISP, Phase III will be in full swing, the Municipality of Badiangan being the first, Mayor Filomeno V. Ganzon was very happy and elated as he spoke before the ARBs, the members of the LGU, and the DAR Officials during the presentation of the results of the site validation conducted by ARISP Central Project Management Office.
Vice Mayor Simeon B. Ganzon was also present in the said occasion. He showed his full support and he gave encouragement to all the Barangay Captains comprising the TIMIPAL ARC.
For DAR Assistant Regional Director for Operations (ARDO) Felicidad C. Bañares, it was very noteworthy that the LGU of Balasan was really in full force and very cooperative in such endeavor. Further, she said that whatever benefits coming from the projects, the same benefits will redound to the benefits of the people.
It can be noted that ARISP, Phase III is one of the foreign assisted projects of the DAR which is designed to provide basic support services to help in the development of ARCs thereby alleviating poverty in the countryside.
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Fourth batch of PDMASP graduated
by: Donna Faye R. Mallanta
Publishing Date: April 28, 2010 (10:25 AM)
ANOTHER batch of President Diosdado Macapagal Agrarian Scholarship Program (PDMASP) grantees completed their degree programs at the Sorsogon State College.
The graduation ceremony was held last March 29, 2010 at the said institution. Mr. Antonino Labrador, Provincial PDMASP Coordinator together with proud parents witnessed the grantees receive their respective diplomas. This was also to congratulate them and at the same time show that PDMASP is there supporting them until graduation day. After years of stay in college, the grantees are ready to face a new chapter of their lives as degree holders. The following were the PDMASP grantees and theircourses: Babylyn L. Abrigo; Sara Jean L. Mangampo; Roseanne T. Andes and Michie M. Navas graduated Bachelor in Agricultural Technology. Aileen P. Dato; Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology. Jerome M. Llabres; Manuel M. Mariño; Aiza M. Lladones; Annie L. Loria; and Leny M. Lotino Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Development major in Agriculture Education. Meanwhile, Geralyn B. Andes; Catherine G. Balderama; Jane D. Belludo; Jenelyn O. Fajardo; Jenalyn B. Garcia; Aimee B. Guiao; Jovelyn G. Loretcha; and Elaine B. Guariña have finished Diploma in Agricultural Technology.
Job hunting is very difficult nowadays, but this batch hope to go back to the land awarded to their families by DAR to put into practice what they have learned in the school. In that way, they may contribute to their own community's agricultural development. The same scenario was expected from them by Roseller R. Olayres, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II.
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Launching of ARCP2 in municipalities of Sorsogon ongoing
by: Donna Faye R. Mallanta
Publishing Date: April 28, 2010 (10:09 AM)
TWO among the six municipalities in Sorsogon which are included in the ARCP (Agrarian Reform Community Project) 2 have launched the Project. These are Casiguran with Hon. Ester Hamor as the Chairperson of Local Project Office (LPO) and Irosin with Hon. Lilia B. Gonzales as the Chairperson of LPO. The activity implies that the barangay officials and the whole community who are involved in the Project in these 2 municipalities have manifested and assured their full support for the implementation of the ARCP2 in their areas.
ARCP2 is the second phase of ARCP in the Philippines. Its phase one was implemented from 1999 to 2007 which covered 11 regions including Bicol. Donsol and Sorsogon were the only municipality-recipients of the first implementation of ARCP in Sorsogon. Unlike ARCP1, this current Project involved only 6 regions. These are Region IV-B, V, VI, VIII, IX and ARMM. Only 3 provinces are included in Bicol region: Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur and Sorsogon. In the province of Sorsogon, only Sorsogon City and 5 municipalities (Casiguran, Irosin, Castilla, Juban, and Bulan) are involved in this Project.
ARCP2 is a FAP (Foreign Assisted Project) of DAR funded by ADB (Asian Development Bank) and OPID (OPEC fund for International Development) which will be implemented in the country from 2009 to 2014. Whether or not a region is a recipient of ARCP, part of its tax collection will proceed to the ADB and OPID as payment for the government loan, thus, lucky enough for region V because it is a recipient of the Project.
"Irosin is very lucky because it always get projects, perhaps the leaders of this municipality are very diligent. Irosin has been a recipient of several projects from DAR. You are the witness, still more projects are possible to be instigated here in Irosin including this ARCP2," Nelson Espaldon, CARP Officer for PBD (Program Beneficiaries' Development) of DAR Sorsogon said in behalf of Roseller R. Olayres, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II during his message in the ARCP2 launching in Irosin.
ARCP2 has 4 components: Community Driven Development (CDD); Agriculture Enterprise Development (AED); Rural Infrastructure (RI); and Project Management. This project was brought to the community in coordination with the local government unit. This is in response to the call of the majority to provide the farmers with support services.
"Our role in DAR is to assist the LGUs and the barangays in the preparation of the needed documents for the central government's approval of their proposed projects. The length of time depends on the community's cooperation. We at DAR, as much as possible like this whole project to be started the soonest, because although it is not yet being started, we are already paying the loan," Ferdie Balmaceda, Project Consultant said during the open forum in the ARCP2 launching in Irosin.
One of the most important documents required in this Project is the minutes of Barangay Workshop Consultation (BWC). Currently, BWC is conducted in every community. It is expected that ARCP2 municipal launching will be made in the remaining 4 municipalities in a few days ahead.
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DAR paid tribute to women
by: Jose Alsmith L. Soria
Publishing Date: April 21, 2010 (11:20 AM)
TACLOBAN CITY - After a loaded month-long women's month celebration with activities that paid tribute to the female species, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Eastern Visayas culminated it with a fun-walk around the city and tree-planting on March 31.
During the month of March DAR Regional Office in coordination with its provincial offices had lined up activities that involved women and their role in national development as depicted in this year's theme, "Babae, Tagumpay Ka ng Bayan".
In Biliran, lady DAR provincial chief Elisea Orapa led her employees in the conduct of supplemental feeding to around 80 children aged three to six years old at the Naval-II agrarian reform community (ARC) on March 9 and tree-planting activity in the same area on the 24th. Each personnel also donated P100 for DAR employees suffering from cancer.
In Leyte, they conducted tree-planting at the DAR provincial office compound; held a motorcade around Tolosa town; a mini-trade fair featuring agricultural and livelihood products of agrarian reform beneficiaries; and aerobics.
In Eastern Samar, DAR in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) trained women agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in livelihood and entrepreneurial skills. While in Northern Samar, DAR personnel underwent waste management seminar and revived the DAR Ladies Association (DARLA).
As Republic Act No. 9700, the amended Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL) calls for the establishment of a women's desk in all its offices, DAR designated Ma. Fe Malinao as the women's desk officer at the regional office; Neodith Moncada (Biliran); Maritess Nacilla (Leyte); Glafera Oraiz (Southern Leyte) and Norieta Besarino (Northern Samar).
According to Regional Director Elmo Bañares, the amended CARP law emphasizes the rights of women to become agrarian reform beneficiaries and avail the same benefits as their male counterparts do.
The same law, Bañare added, also gives importance to the rights of women to be represented in advisory or appropriate decision-making bodies previously dominated by men.
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DAR-Agusan del Norte conducts tree planting in BASAG ARC
by: Gil E. Miranda
Publishing Date: April 12, 2010 (7:34 AM)
Over one hundred seedlings of different species were planted as DAR Agusan del Norte personnel converged to a tree planting activity in commemoration of the annual celebration of the National Women's Month with the theme: "DAR GAD goes Clean, Green and Lean in 2010" which focused on the environmental awareness and consciousness in relation to climate change held at Basag ARC, Butuan City on March 29, 2010.
It was participated in by all DAR personnel in the province of Agusan del Norte in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) who provided seedlings being used during the said activity.
PARO II Andre B. Atega commended DAR GAD advocates and personnel by exerting efforts and doing their share to protect and preserve the environment.
"Gender and Development advocates in DAR Agusan del Norte played an active role not only on gender rights and equality but also participates in a worthy endeavor contributing solutions to environmental concerns." PARO Atega said.
The DAR personnel, who are working with farmers to improve livelihood and their environment, eagerly showed their willingness to respond the call for urgency in caring for our ecosystem and to restore degraded forest land areas that can cause soil erosions and flush floods that destroyed many crops of farmer-beneficiaries.
DENR Regional Executive Director Edilberto S. Buiser extends his all-out support by approving DAR personnel's request to provide over a hundred of seedlings comprised of durian, jackfruit, marang, star apple and others fruits.
Further, during the tree planting activity, DAR personnel contributed generously from their own pocket a sum of P10,400 for the benefit of the colleagues in DAR who were diagnosed with cancer.
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Southern Leyte PARO gets appointment from PGMA
by: Jose Alsmith L. Soria
Publishing Date: April 6, 2010 (3:41 PM)
SOGOD, SOUTHERN LEYTE - After performing the task of a Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO-II) in an officer in-charge capacity for seven years, Venerio Yap finally got his appointment from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Yap, appointed PARO-I of Southern Leyte, was surprised when Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman announced the new presidential appointees from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) during an agency assessment in Cebu City on March 11.
Pangandaman on the same occasion officiated the taking of oath of office of the newly appointed DAR officials.
PARO Yap, 62, joined DAR on January 5, 1973 as a Junior Statistician assigned in St. Bernard, Southern Leyte. He was promoted to Examiner-I, then later to Budget Officer-1.
During the DAR re-organization in 1989, Yap was appointed Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer (CARPO) for the Administrative Division at the DAR Provincial Office of Leyte.
In 2003, he was designated as PARO-II for Biliran. Then, in July 2009 he was transferred to Southern Leyte and was instrumental in this province accomplishment of 478 percent of its target in land acquisition and distribution last year.
According to Yap, his most memorable experience in his 37 years in DAR was when he and several other co-employees were imprisoned in 1973 when a landowner complained after they covered the latter's property under the operation land transfer (OLT) program during the Marcos regime.
His recent appointment will inspire him more to complete the liberation of agricultural tenants and farm workers in this province from the bondage of the soil under R.A. 9700 or the amended Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and fulfill the promise of a better quality of life.
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The DAR-Agusan del Sur
by: Teresita Salapang
Publishing Date: April 5, 2010 (10:55 AM)
Being the lead agency in the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) in the Province, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-- Agusan del Sur effectively undertakes the three (3) major components of the program.
In Land Tenure Improvement, which aims for equitable land ownership, a total of 115,280 hectares were distributed to 48,694 ARBs, making these farmers genuine landowners from a landless tiller. In 2009, a total of 1,084 hectares were distributed. This year, the province is committed to distribute 3,257 hectares and projects to transform 1,303 landless tillers to landowners.
In he delivery of Agrarian Justice, as the second component. Its sub-components are adjudication and agrarian legal assistance (ALA). On adjudication of Agrarian cases around 384 cases resolved and 785 affected ARBs. This activity is undertaken by the DARAB. On Agrarian Legal Assistance-- a total of 1,210 cases were resolved in 2009. It represented 7 cases in the judicial courts and 409 cases in quasi-judicial courts. A total 418 mediation and conciliation activities were also conducted.
The third componen is the provision of support services to the beneficiaries in the aim of making them entrepreneurs who will be effectively managing their lands and enterprise. It undertakes various activities to ensure development of a total of 23 Agrarian Reform Communities (ARC)-- a strategy adopted to maximize the limited resources int he aid to the community and its development.
It cares for more than 15,000 members of the 134 DAR-assisted people's organization. This year, out of the 134 organizations, 52 organizations, are in the highest level of maturity at 5, from the last year's 36.
DAR also runs a total of 1,780 foreign-assisted projects all amounting to billion pesos. These projects intervention include infrastructures like farm to market roads, bridges, pre and post harvest facilities, irrigation, lighting system, potable water supply, barangay health stations and school buildings, It also includes the provision of livelihood projects and trainings in aid to capacity building.
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DAR to reorganize barangay agrarian reform councils
by: Jose Alsmith L. Soria
Publishing Date: March 23, 2010 (11:13 AM)
TACLOBAN CITY - Considering the important role of the Barangay Agrarian Reform Councils (BARCs) in the successful implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) in the country, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is working double-time to reorganize this body particularly the non-functional ones.
Based on a directive from the DAR central office, Regional Director Elmo Bañares ordered the reorganization and strengthening of BARCs in all barangays in Eastern Visayas.
Initially, from February 22 up to this week a team from DAR regional office re-orients its Municipal Agrarian Reform Officers (MARO) and Development Facilitators (DFs) on the guidelines in the organization of the BARC, its role and functions, composition and term of office as well as legal implications.
After the orientation the MAROs and the DFs will then initiate the re-organization of BARCs in every barangay in their respective areas of coverage. Under the guidelines, BARC officers have a three-year term effective from the date they took their oath of office after their election.
Director Bañares emphasized the critical role of the BARC under the new agrarian reform law or the Republic Act. 9700 (CARPER).
According to him, in the identification of agrarian reform beneficiaries BARC will certify under oath to make sure that only the qualified ones are identified and avoid delay in the implementation of the land acquisition and distribution program.
Among the functions of the BARC include the mediation and conciliation of agrarian disputes in their areas; attest to the accuracy in the conduct of parcellary mapping; provide assistance to beneficiaries in obtaining credit assistance from lending institutions; and coordinate in the delivery of support services extended by the DAR and other line agencies.
BARC is composed of a representative from each of the following sectors: recipients of certificate of land ownership award/emancipation patent; agricultural lessees; beneficiaries of Integrated Social Forestry (ISF); amortizing owner; non-beneficiary farmers/farmworkers; agricultural cooperatives/farmers organizations; landowners; rural women; and indigenous community.
Personnel from the DAR, Municipal Agriculture Office, Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, Land Bank of the Philippines, Barangay Council, Non-Government Organizations based in the municipal or provincial level, and the Municipal Planning Development Officer are considered ex-officio members.
CARP being a social justice program is implemented with the participation of the members of the community thus under Executive Order 229 BARC shall operate on a self-help basis.
At present, there are 13,156 existing BARCs nationwide that were previously organized.
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Revitalizing the BARC and Enhancing PMES
by: Lut Arbolente
Publishing Date: March 10, 2010 (04:03 PM)
Strengthening of BARC (Barangay Agrarian Reform Council) is one of the agenda discussed in the recent conference of MAROs (Municipal Agrarian Reform Officers) in DAR Sorsogon headed by Roseller R. Olayres, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II.
Almost everybody knows that CARP (Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program) is founded on the right of farmers to own the land they till or to receive a just share of their harvest, thus, the BARC was formed wherein the Department of Agrarian Reform conversed on agrarian reform issues. This council is composed of twelve representatives: ARBs, Non-ARBs, agricultural cooperatives, farmer's organizations, barangay council, NGOs, landowners, Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Agrarian Reform, and Land Bank of the Philippines.
BARC has been long implemented in the province of Sorsogon and they operate on a self-help basis. However their existence and vital role in the implementation of agrarian reform seems unknown to many and its supposed re-organization every two years becomes three years or more, hence, the term of many BARC Officials has already lapse without replacements. For that reason, DAR will revive the BARC. DAR-BDCD of Sorsogon headed by Nelson Espaldon will set up the 3-year Provincial BARC Strengthening Plan. Part of the strengthening is the provision of IDs to the BARC officers.
Another agenda undertaken during the recent MARO conference is the Orientation of the Enhanced Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation System. CARPO Gina Bolaños from DAR Regional Office presented its Salient Features. "One very important to be looked for in monitoring is whether the ARB has maintained the ownership of the land", Bolaños said.
The reason why improvement in planning, monitoring, and evaluation system of DAR is needed, is to get a concrete figure regarding the impact of CARP's implementation to the ARBs' lives because in practice, DAR has not yet making such survey. This time, the system will be more scrupulous. Unlike in the past year, provincial offices submit only the summarized reports to the regional office, now it will have an accompaniment Evidence List. The Provincial Evaluation, Monitoring Unit (PMEU) will submit the summarized reports. In Sorsogon, it will be the responsibility of Mariam Jamoralin, PMEU Head. The Provincial Data Processing Center will submit the evidence list. Ma. Teresa Dealca, Computer Programmer will do that task. This is to ease the tallying of Accomplishment Reports submitted with the reported Accomplishment in the Central Office.
A provincial Data Team (PDT) will be organized to be the verifier of the information submitted by the DARMOs (DAR Mun'l Offices). Its members will be composed of Division Chief. The PMEU (Provincial Monitoring and Evaluation Unit) Head will be the Team Head who will be called "Data Base Manager". The Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II will be the overseer of the PDT.
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DAR-ARCP2 Team and LPOs undergo E-PAP Training
by: Lut Arbolente
Publishing Date: March 10, 2010 (3:49 PM)
Orientation-Training on Enhanced Participatory Area Planning (E-PAP) was held in Sorsogon which was participated by DAR-ARCP2 Team and LPOs (Local Project Offices) of LGUs as part of the Agrarian Reform Communities Project (ARCP2) implementation in the province.
Roseller R. Olayres, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II who is the ARCP2 Provincial Project Manager in Sorsogon acknowledged the presence of the LPOs particularly the MPDCs, Municipal Engineers, MAOs, and MSWDOs; and other DAR-Personnel from Regional Office who are included in the project implementation.
During the occasion, Lerma Dino, RPO CDD Specialist gives the Brief Orientation regarding ARCP2 overview and strategic framework; E-PAP framework overview; and E-PAP concept, processes and output. Mar Duka, PPO CDD Coordinator expounds the formation and orientation of planning team; and E-PAP Team Composition and Responsibilities. He also discussed the importance of ARC Profiling and Secondary Data Collection. Teofisto Villanueva RPO AED and Marketing Specialist discussed the Objectives, Processes and Outputs of BWC (Barangay Workshop Consultation) and Community Visioning. Ferdie Balmaceda, ARCP2 CDD Consultant tackled all about the preparation of masterlist and household grouping; as well as the process in determining respondent and conduct of household survey.
Afterwards, Lerma Dino gives inputs on how to conduct Focused Group Dialogue. The financial analysis, cost and return, and cash flow analysis was explained by Benjar Romero, ARCP2 RPO Economist. The orientation will not be completed without the lectures about Constraint and potentials analysis of SWOT, and the Constraints Tree Analysis. All of this knowledge are needed in the preparation of Comprehensive ARC Development Plan (CARCDP) as one of the requirements in the implementation of ARCP2. Before the end of the day, they were able to do the action planning managed by Nelson Espaldon, ARCP2 Assistant Project Manager.
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What's on the table of DAR Sorsogon for the 1st semester?
by: Lut Arbolente
Publishing Date: March 10, 2010 (02:11 PM)
The second MAROs (Municipal Agrarian Reform Officers) meeting for the first quarter of 2010 tackles the updates from the National Assessment and Planning vis-a-vis CY 2010 Operational Directives. Roseller R. Olayres, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II reported to the MAROs and Division Chiefs the 2010 target for first semester of DAR Sorsogon as presented by USEC Herrera in the National Assessment and Planning.
The mandated target share of Sorsogon to the 200,000 hectares National Funded Target is 4,413 hectares. It appears that Sorsogon has 2,206 hectares plus the backlog from the 2009 target to be worked out in the following five months. Truly an awkward scenario is foreseen in LTI (Land Tenure Improvement). "Suntok sa Buwan" was Felix Fruto, CARPO for Operation's comment on this because last year there was an order to stop the survey activity. "Per matrix, only 297 hectares of land has Approved Survey Plan," Fruto said. This mean, only that figure has the potential to be accomplished. Furthermore, the 14 MAROs commit to accomplish only more than 3,000 hectares for the whole year.
Meanwhile, PBD (Program Beneficiaries' Development) activities on Social Infrastructure and Local Capability Building (SILCAB), Sustainable Agribusiness and Rural Enterprise Development (SARED), and Access Facilitation and Access Enhancement Services (AFAES) will continue with its latest operational directives. As to the AJD (Agrarian Justice Delivery), the LAD (Land Acquisition and Distribution) related - ageing flashpoint cases as well as the cases involving bigger hectarage in the disposition and resolution of agrarian reform cases will be the priority in ALA (Agrarian Legal Assistance).
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The ARB Cooperatives in Sorsogon under RA 9520
by: Lut Arbolente
Publishing Date: March 10, 2010 (01:49 PM)
SORSOGON. DAR-BDCD conducts Orientation-Workshop on re-registration of ARB Cooperatives under ARCP2 for the officers of DAR-assisted cooperatives.
Due to the new implemented Republic Act 9520 known as Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008, there is a need for all existing cooperatives to re-register under the new law to the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), otherwise their registration will be cancelled and therefore they would have no more personality to enter into any contract.
Every cooperative should re-register before March 22, 2010 as stated in the guidelines of the new code. Thus, Nelson Espaldon, OIC CARPO for BDCD calls the ARB's Cooperatives to attend this timely workshop. There are 10 Cooperatives responded from 9 ARCs. The Sorsogon Provincial Cooperative Bank has also attended to invite the participants to avail their services.
Danilo Mendizabal, Cooperative Development Specialist is among the speakers. He discussed the Salient Features of RA 9520 because there are many changes in the set of laws such as: Officers has no more term limit but an elected officer of local government unit can no longer be an officer of a cooperative; only the Audit Committee and Election Committee could be elected, while the rest are all BOD appointed like Education Committee, Mediation-Conciliation Committee, Ethics Committee, and other committees; and if the old law has only 6 principles which are (1) Voluntary and Open Membership (2) Democratic Member Control (3) Member Economic Participation (4) Autonomy and Independence (5) Education, Training and Information (6) Cooperation Among Cooperatives, now it has an additional principle which is (7) Concern for Community. Afterwards, Maria Luisa P. Mirasol, Provincial Cooperative Development Specialist of CDA Sorsogon discussed the procedural guidelines in the issuance of new certificate of registration under the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.
"This orientation-workshop is very helpful to us because we are being updated about the new cooperative code, thus, we are informed the need to register our cooperative before it's too late," said by the chairperson of JUMUCO, an ARB's Cooperative in Gubat, Sorsogon.
"We are very thankful that the personnel of DAR always remember us that they give us this privilege to acquire such learning. Through this initiative, we are no longer ignorant about the new guidelines," said by the chairperson of SCDECO, an ARB's Cooperative in Casiguran, Sorsogon.
The lectures are followed by action planning. At the end of the day a sense of satisfaction reflected on the faces of Maribel J. Lubiano, Marcelina Duka, and Thomas Diesta (the BDCD Staff of DAR Sosogon under Roseller R. Olayres, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II) who facilitated this activity for seeing the participants' appreciation of what they did.
"We are doing this to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the cooperative movement; so that they could put into practice the seventh principle which is the concern for community, and hopefully, they will re-register their cooperative as soonest as possible," Floredeliza Corcuera said, the emcee of the activity, as a closing remarks.
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Health Plus Outlet launched
by: Aileen Alaban-Villaseca
Publishing Date: March 8, 2010 (09:37 AM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform through its provincial office in Negros Oriental headed by Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Stephen M. Leonidas, CESO V, in coordination with Katacgahan Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Multi Purpose Coop (KARBEMCO) and Provincial Pharmaceutical Foundation (PPF) Health District Management Team launched Health Plus Outlet (HPO) last March 3, 2010 at KARBEMCO Training Hall Brgy. Katacgahan, Bais City.
HPO is a pharmaceutical outlet located in the Community that sells over-the-counter and limited prescription drugs that are essential and are in their generic formulation. These are certified good quality and affordable drugs that the members of the community get access too. It is owned by the People's organization that is registered by a government bureau or agency as a legitimate organization. This is housed in a Rural Health Center, a Barangay Health Station or a government-owned pharmacy. It is licensed by the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) as Botika ng Barangay.
With HPO present in the barangay, the community will now have available drugs without bothering to go to the city anytime it is needed.
The following attended the launching: PARO II Stephen M. Leonidas, CESO V; Dr. Edgardo P. Pialago, COH/CEO-Guihulngan; Hon. Thirdie Boufarrd representing Mayor Hector Villanueva of Bais City; Hon. Franco Bacang, Barangay Captain of Brgy. Tangculogan and KARBEMCO Manager Romulo Rumbo.
PARO Leonidas said that health plus is beneficial to the people and the success of whatever program in Government is dependent on the cooperation of the community.
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BCBMPC Launches "Pinoy Coop ATM"
by: Gil Miranda
Publishing Date: March 4, 2010 (3:23 PM)
The launching of its "Pinoy Coop ATM" on February 23, 2010 at main branch in Magallanes, Agusan del Norte is another milestone for BCBMPC in finding better ways to serve and address the needs of its ARB and non-ARB members.
Hon. Congressman Edilmero A. Amante, District II Representative and RD Faisar Ali Mambuay, DAR CARAGA Regional Director with PARO II Andre B. Atega of DAR-Agusan del Norte cut the ribbon of the Pinoy Coop ATM of BCBMPC with the assistance of Mayor Carlito C. Cumba, Municipality of Carmen and Mr. Leopoldo Cabiad, in behalf of RD Manuela E. Pelaes of CDA - Caraga Region.
"We are proud to announce that BCBMPC is now on the peak of its dreams being the only Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative in CARAGA Region having an ATM project installed and operationalized", DAR Regional Director Faisar Mambuay said.
Meanwhile, PARO II Andre B. Atega congratulates BCBMPC for harvesting the yields on the impact of Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) in Agusan del Norte. He reiterated the spirit of unity, one of the reasons why the coop still stands over a decade.
The recently installed Pinoy Coop ATM is a dream come true to the members of BCBMPC through the effort of Chairman Jimmy L. Beray in partnership with Mindanao Alliance Self-help Societies - Southern Philippines Education Cooperative Center (MASS-SPECC).
For his part, Mr. Jimmy L. Beray sincerely commended DAR Agusan del Norte through their European-funded Agrarian Reform Support Project (ARSP), granted a loan 13 years ago used to start a business.
At least 4,790 members stand to benefit from BCBMPC Pinoy Coop ATM comprising of five (5) branches located in Butuan City, Cabadbaran City, Buenavista and satellite office at Langihan, Butuan City.
The Pinoy Coop ATM has link 24 hours, 7 days a week to any Megalink and BancNet ATM Machines. BCBMPC members can now withdraw their loans using any ATM worldwide.
The BCBMPC is one of the cooperatives assisted by the Department of Agrarian Reform of Agusan del Norte in 1994 with 110 lowly-paid crab hunters and fishpond workers started from humble beginnings and now operated a bank-like-operation.
Now, the cooperative has grown to P79,043,404.14 Million total assets and seen to further expand its coverage to include Surigao del Norte soon.
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DAR's new OIC PARO II made courtesy call to Gov. Isidro Zayco of Negros Occidental
by: Gloria C. Cañonero
Publishing Date: February 26, 2010 (9:20 AM)
Bacolod City. Newly designated OIC-Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer of DAR Negros Occidental, Felix L. Servidad made his courtesy call to Hon. Governor Isidro Zayco at Provincial Capitol Office. PARO Servidad officially introduced himself to the good governor after his assumption of office last January 25, 2010. Also with PARO Servidad is the CARPO for Beneficiaries Development Coordination Division(BDCD) Ronald Gareza, who is in charge of the support services programs/projects for agrarian reform beneficiaries and DAR's PIO Gloria C. Cañonero.
Governor Zayco informed the new PARO of the situation involving CARP implementation in the province, which sometimes results to mass actions/protest of other farmworkers who are still trying to be beneficiaries. Likewise, he also noted that despite of some incidents that had happened, he reiterated the call for support services needed by agrarian reform beneficiaries. PARO Servidad also informed the governor that being new in this province he is still in the process of familiarization as Negros Occidental is a big province for CARP implementation. However, he promised to look for the necessary and appropriate support services for Negros Occidental which is a main producer of sugarcane. CARPO Gareza also informed Gov. Zayco about the implementation of ARCP2 in the different communities in Negros Occidental where were identified and recommended as areas for ARCP2. The project provides a package a package of support services to recipient LGUs. It is funded by the Asian Development Bank. Among the support services given are Rural infra like FMR, bridges, irrigation systems, potable water systems, post harvest facilities and multi-purpose centers. 2.Community Driven Development like the ARC Development Plans, strong farmer organization, capacity building and good governance programs; 3.Agriculture and Enterprise Development, new technologies, natural farming systems, agri-enterprises, market development and credit access.
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DAR-LGU conducted orientation/writeshop for ARCP2
by: Gloria C. Cañonero
Publishing Date: February 26, 2010 (9:20 AM)
DAR Negros Occ. together with Local Government Units who are recipients of Agrarian Reform Community Project 2 (ARCP2) jointly participated in the recently conducted 'Orientation cum Writeshop on Feasibility Study for Rural Infrastructure Projects for ARCP2' at Northwest, Bacolod City. LGUs were represented by their Municipal/City Engineers and Planning Officers from the Cities of Bago, Victorias, Silay and Talisay, and the Municipalities of Calatrava, Valladolid, Pontevedra, Candoni.
Discussed during the writeshop were the framework and components of ARCP2, Rural Infra (RI) sub-components, Process flow in the rural infra implementation, general/specific eligibility criteria, prioritization/ranking of RI projects, Equity sharing, process and documentary requirements of approval of RI projects with NSAC. Also included are the format for Financial Statement for Rural Road projects, Detailed Engineering (DE) and Program of Work (POW) for Rural Road projects. Thorough discussion, open forum, and commitment settings came during the 3rd day. Feasibility studies to be submitted includes the following set up, 1. Project Profile; 2. Background ("ARC or Project); 3. Marketing Aspects (includes Gen source of Transportation, traffic patterns); 4.Technical Aspects; 5. Financial Analysis; 6. Economic Analysis; 7. Operational Feasibility; 8. project Safeguards & Social Assessment (includes Environmental Safeguards, IP concerns, Involuntary Resettlement and social acceptability). Commitments and final projects identifications esp the costing were all subject for final discussion with the local chief executive and the Sangguniang members as well as the identified community itself of the identified recipients as jointly funded by Asian Development Bank.
LGUs were represented by Engr. Herbert Yales and MPDO Cesar Barcinella with Rafael Rodero from Pontevedra; Engr. Cleofas Galicia and MPDO Ernesto Ponsica from Calatrava; PDA Ma. Angela Soliva and CGADH Eduardo de la Cruz from Victorias; Engr. Adelo Seva and CPDC Edwin de Nicolas of Bago City; Engr. Sonny Almonia and CPDC Marcelo Sausi from Talisay City; Angr. Joseph Manayon and MPDC Narciso Bedaure from Valladolid; Engr. Eddie Boy Pahilanga and CPDC OIC Grace Cabrera and Stat. II Eulogio Emlo joined by SP Michael Pahilanga. RD Alexis M. Arsenal and Dr. Gideon Yongque, Jr. PARO I, leads DAR ARCP 2 composed by Alfred magabo, Engr. Ramon Padrinavo, Engr. Hernan Jason, Engr. Antonio Ronel Triño, Ma. Azucena Arroyo and Nelita Azucena, DAR Negros Occ. BDCD Staff represented by Milagros Flores, Engr. Arnulfo Figueroa and BDCD staff with DAR PIO Glo Cañonero.
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DAR-NATCCO launches MICOOP in Bukidnon
By Editha R. Salvador
Publishing Date: February 26, 2010 (08:53 AM)
The Microfinance Innovations in Cooperatives (MICOOP) is a model activity initiated by the National Confederation of Cooperatives (NATCCO) to enable relatively weak agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB) cooperatives to provide bank-like financial services through the build-operate-adopt-transfer (BOAT) scheme. NATCCO has pilot tested the said scheme since CY 2007 under the AGRISOL Program, a rural finance partnership endeavor between DAR through the Second Agrarian Reform Community Development Project (ARCDP 2) and Land Bank of the Philippines.
The first batch of 5 ARC cooperatives covered by the scheme have been successfully transformed into MICOOP models. Thus, DAR through the Bureau of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development (BARBD) and NATCCO forged a partnership in September 2008 for the implementation of ARC MICOOP Modeling Project (AMMP). With funding support from ARCDP 2, the second batch of another 5 ARC cooperatives were able to establish their respective MICOOP offices.
In view of the impressive performance of the 10 pilot MICOOP models, and in line with the operational directives for mainstreaming and sustainability of ARCDP 2 MICOOP initiatives within DAR, the DAR-LBP Credit Assistance Program National Program Management Committee, in its meeting on 28 May 2009, approved the 3-year implementation of the Microfinance Innovations in Cooperatives in Agrarian Reform Areas (MICOOP@ARAS). The program covers the continuing capacity building of the existing 10 ARC MICOOP models and the expansion of the program to another 10 provinces in order to reach a greater number of ARBs.
In Region 10, Bukidnon is the lone province so far identified as beneficiary of the program with the Springside Irrigators and Farmers Multi-purpose Cooperative (SIFAMCO) as the MICOOP model. The SIFAMCO office opened its services to the public after its launching on 08 February 2010 in North Poblacion ARC, Municipality of Maramag. SIFAMCO was registered with the Cooperative Development Authority in 1998 with initial 32 members. As MICOOP model, SIFAMCO now offers microfinancing and agricultural loan services not only to its present 88 farmer-members but to other qualified farmers, as well.
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DAR, NGO prepare Palawan ARC residents to construct community-based water, sanitation and hygiene facilities
by: Fedeleo L. De Guzman
Publishing Date: February 19, 2010 (02:43 PM)
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, PALAWAN -- the Department Of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Philippine Center for Water and Sanitation (PCWS) have joined forces to conduct a nine-day hands-on construction and training on identified water and sanitation technologies under the auspices of Community-based Potable Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Project for Agrarian Reform Communities (CPWASH for ARCs) which has commenced for full implementation in Barangay Panitian, Quezon, Palawan.
The activity which was scheduled February 17-25, 2010 will be attended by selected DAR regional and provincial personnel, Quezon Municipal Planning Development Officer (MPDO) and Municipal Engineer, Panitian Barangay Captain or its Barangay Council-Chairperson on Health Committee, Panitian Multipurpose Cooperative Chairman, Vice-Chairman and its Education Committee Chairperson and an assembly of mason, wielder and laborers from the area.
As per activity proposal, the training will serve as venue to farmers' cooperative operating in the area, local government unit and DAR as project partners to work together to acquire knowledge and skills in constructing the water and sanitation facilities and to prepare them for an enterprise management and replication of the project to other areas in the not-too-distant future.
The activity which under the banner of CPWASH Project is set to address the lack of knowledge, awareness and appreciation of low-cost sanitation technologies among community residents as well as policy makers which in turn will encourage them to increase investments in sanitation and the development of enabling policies towards this end.
According to Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) Conrado S. Guevarra, the implementation of the CPWASH Project in Bgy. Panitian is part the delivery of basic social services for the residents within the ARCs as the DAR, its line agencies and partner entities are gearing towards a more intensified and a more responsive Program Beneficiaries Development under the CARPER.
He further said that the installation of water and hygiene facilities such as water systems and sanitary latrines is aimed at giving farmer-beneficiaries and ARC residents' access to the sanitation amenities that typically if not present are underprovided in rural areas.
The CPWASH Project that is mutually pushed by DAR and PCWS presents low-cost appropriate alternatives to create positive changes. It addresses the need to make sanitation affordable to low-income households. Expanding the range of water supply and sanitation systems presented to communities and households provide them with more options and information.
PCWS, based on their website www.itnphil.org.ph, used to be known as International Training Network (ITN) when it started in 1990 as a project of the Netherlands-based Institute of Infrastructure, Hydraulics and Engineering (IHE). It registered as a nongovernmental organization in 1998 as Philippine Center for Water and Sanitation-The ITN Foundation and started supporting itself through its professional fees.
PCWS now undertakes researches, trainings and consultancies on water, sanitation and hygiene programs. It also provides technical assistance to interested local governments, communities and other NGOs. Engineers of PCWS work with communities in developing low cost water supply and sanitation technology options, thereby enhancing local initiatives leading to benefits in health and livelihood.
Facilitators of the training and hands-on construction are CPWASH Project Engineer and a foreman both from PWCS. Joining them as facilitators are personnel from the Beneficiaries Development and Coordination Division (BDCD) of DAR-Palawan.
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Road construction for Badiangan farmers starts
by: Ma. Yvonne E. Senobin
Publishing Date: February 11, 2010 (12:52 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently held a preconstruction conference in Bgy. Bitaoyan, Badiangan, Iloilo, a mark that the construction of the road project called "Junction National Road (JNR) - Catubig - Bitaoyan - Astorga - Budiaue Circumferential Road" is being constructed. It was attended by stakeholders of the project.
The project is one of the Foreign Assisted Projects implemented by DAR under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP) III with funding source both from Japan Government through the Japan International Cooperating Agency (JICA), and from the Philippine Government. The 8.263 km farm-to-market road project has a total cost of around 22M and is expected to be finished October of this year.
According to ARISP National Project Manager, Celerina G. Afable, said activity will ensure that everything will be properly implemented including the systems. She likewise informed the people of CLABBIS Agrarian Reform Community (ARC), the site of the project, that additional projects under ARISP are ready for implementation, the irrigation, the potable water supply, and the warehouse.
The dynamic Mayor of Badiangan, Suzette A. Mamon, was very thankful and was hoping that the project can be continued and can be sustained. She even suggested that a resolution or an ordinance be passed at the barangay level with respect to project maintenance.
Initially, the ARISProject in Badiangan covers 7 barangays comprising the CLABBIS ARC: Catubig, Linayuan, Astorga, Budiaue, Bitaoyan, Iniligan and Sianon, while its implementation is made possible through the partnership of DAR with DPWH, NIA and the Local Government of Badiangan under the leadership of Mayor Mamon.
DAR Regional Director, Alexis M. Arsenal, likewise enjoined the people of CLABBIS to take good care of the project while Gideon A. Umadhay, Jr., OIC-Iloilo Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II, reminded the people that it was because of them that the project came to materialize and DAR is only the facilitator. Further, he wished that the Municipality of Badiangan will make a "banner year" for ARISP implementation.
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DAR - Iloilo optimistic to attain work targets for CY 2010
by: Ma. Yvonne E. Senobin
Publishing Date: February 10, 2010 (04:43 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Iloilo Provincial Office is optimistic that it can attain its work targets for CY 2010 as the necessary directives were already issued by DAR Secretary, Nasser C. Pangandaman, after the passage of Republic Act 9700, commonly known as CARPER or the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program with Extension and Reform last August 2009 and is now taking off towards full implementation.
As mandated, DAR is tasked to acquire and redistribute lands to the landless; provide basic support services for the development of the quality of life of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) that ranges from capability building and trainings, infrastructures, marketing, and credit facilities; and to provide legal assistance through agrarian justice delivery to those beneficiaries affected by the implementation of the program.
DAR - Iloilo, according to OIC - Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) II, Gideon A. Umadhay, Jr. is hopeful, as he enjoined all DAR- Iloilo personnel for their cooperation, that it can distribute the 9,000 hectares target for this year while bringing more ARBs in the Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs) to attain a better quality of life for their families.
It can be recalled that DAR-Iloilo has its new chief, PARO Umadhay, after the turn-over ceremony last week from Mr. Eberardo N. Erispe who is now assigned in DAR - Guimaras taking the place of former PARO Teresita Depeñoso who is now assigned in Surigao del Norte. PARO Umadhay was formerly the head of DAR - Negros prior to his assignment in Iloilo.
Likewise in the same occasion, Regional Director Alexis M. Arsenal, directed all the Municipal Agrarian Reform Officers (MAROs) that they are not allowed to take a leave and go out of the country when they cannot yet accomplish their respective work targets for the year, while Assistant Regional Director for Operations, Felicidad C. Bañares urged everybody to give a "bit of their heart," meaning to be committed in their work as they implement CARPER.
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DAR swaps PAROs for Cebu and Negros Oriental
by: Aileen Alaban-Villaseca (DARPO-Negros Oriental)
Publishing Date: February 02, 2010 (01:24 PM)
Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II Stephen M. Leonidas will assume office as the new provincial agrarian reform officer of the Department of Agrarian Reform-Negros Oriental after the turn-over ceremony to be held at Plaza Maria Luisa, Dumaguete City, today, February 2, 2010.
PARO Grace B. Fua will turn-over the post of PARO Stephen Leonidas, as she will also assume her post as new PARO of Cebu Province. The turn-over ceremony in Cebu took place last January 28, 2010. The PAROs swapped positions in line with the Department's policy to re-shuffle PAROs/Directors by virtue of Special Order No. 9, series of 2010.
PARO Stephen M. Leonidas served as PARO for Negros Oriental from 2003-2006. He was transferred to DAR-Bacolod in May 2006 and in Cebu last February 8, 2008.
In Cebu City, PARO Fua said that "this is a new challenge for her, though it may not be the same as Negros Oriental". Meanwhile, PARO Leonidas said that he finds transferring to Negros more challenging considering that under the CARPER, we will be covering the big landholdings with resistance where majority of the area are planted with sugar.
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New DAR Officials for Bohol
by: Ma. Lydia D. Bantugan (DARPO-Bohol)
Publishing Date: February 01, 2010 (01:39 PM)
Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) issued Special Order No. 09, Series of 2010 dated January 08, 2010 for the re-assignment of DAR officials nationwide.
Atty. Johnson A. Sinco, the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II (PARO II) of this province for almost 11 years is now the Acting Assistant Regional Director for Administration (ARDA) at DAR Regional Office, Cebu City. His post as PARO II is replaced by Antonio del Socorro, a graduate of Doctor in Public Administration, Chief of the Support Services Division in DAR Region 7 and designated as the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer I (PARO I) of DARPO Bohol last September. He is also a professor of the Cebu Normal University (CNU) on weekends.
On the other hand, Eddie E. Manginsay, MPA is the current Chief of the Beneficiaries Development and Coordination Division (BDCD) here and at the same time designated as the PARO I of DAR Bohol.
The formal turn-over ceremony will be conducted after the return of Atty. Sinco who is attending the DAR National Assessment of all ARDAs in Manila on January 10-14 while Del Socorro and Manginsay were attending the Regional Assessment for 2009 Accomplishment and 2010 Target Setting in Cebu City last January 13-14, 2010.
DAR Region 7 is headed by Director Rodolfo T. Inson.
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Bañares is new DAR-8 RD
by: Jose Alsmith L. Soria (DARRO-8)
Publishing Date: February 01, 2010 (10:55 AM)
TACLOBAN CITY - The former Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Region-8 is back after nearly two decades, this time as Regional Director.
Elmo A. Bañares, now 62, assumed office on January 18 this year based on Special Order No. 9, series of 2010 issued by agrarian reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman early this month replacing Regional Director John Maruhom.
A native of Iloilo City, Bañares' was the Regional Director in CARAGA region prior to his assignment here. In 1993 he was also appointed as assistant regional director for operations in this region.
On his first assignment here almost 20 years ago, employees remember him as an honest to goodness government official who won't tolerate any malpractice in the organization.
Bañares is a holder of the degree in Master in National Security Administration (MNSA) and a level-III Career Executive Service Officer (CESO III).
Meanwhile, in the same Special Order, after serving as Regional Director in Eastern Visayas for 11 months Maruhom is transferred to Davao City.
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The ARB Cooperatives in Sorsogon under RA 9520
by: Lut Arbolente (DARPO-Sorsogon)
Publishing Date: February 01, 2010 (10:36 AM)
DAR-BDCD conducts Orientation-Workshop on re-registration of ARB Cooperatives under ARCP2 for the officers of DAR-assisted cooperatives.
Due to the new implemented Republic Act 9520 known as Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008, there is a need for all existing cooperatives to re-register under the new law to the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), otherwise their registration will be cancelled and therefore they would have no more personality to enter into any contract.
Every cooperative should re-register before March 22, 2010 as stated in the guidelines of the new code. Thus, Nelson Espaldon, OIC CARPO for BDCD calls the ARB's Cooperatives to attend this timely workshop. There are 10 Cooperatives which responded from 9 ARCs. The Sorsogon Provincial Cooperative Bank has also extended an invitation to the participants to avail of their services.
Danilo Mendizabal, Cooperative Development Specialist is among the speakers. He discussed the Salient Features of RA 9520 because there are many changes in the set of laws such as: Officers has no more term limit but an elected officer of local government unit can no longer be an officer of a cooperative; only the Audit Committee and Election Committee could be elected, while the rest are all BOD appointed like Education Committee, Mediation-Conciliation Committee, Ethics Committee, and other committees; and if the old law has only 6 principles which are (1) Voluntary and Open Membership (2) Democratic member Control (3) Member Economic Participation (4) Autonomy and Independence (5) Education, Training and Information (6) Cooperation Among Cooperatives, now it has an additional principle which is (7) Concern for Community. Afterwards, Maria Luisa P. Mirasol, Provincial Cooperative Development Specialist of CDA Sorsogon discussed the procedural guidelines in the issuance of new certificate of registration under the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.
"This orientation-workshop is very helpful to us because we are being updated about the new cooperative code, thus, we are informed of the need to register our cooperative before it's too late," said by the chairperson of JUMUCO, an ARB's Cooperative in Gubat, Sorsogon.
"We are very thankful that the personnel of DAR always remember us that they give us this privilege to acquire such learning. Through this initiative, we are no longer ignorant about the new guidelines," said by the chairperson of SCDECO, an ARB's Cooperative in Casiguran, Sorsogon.
The lectures are followed by action planning. At the end of the day a sense of satisfaction reflected on the faces of Maribel J. Lubiano, Marcelina Duka, and Thomas Diesta (the BDCD Staff of DAR Sosogon under Roseller R. Olayres, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II) who facilitated this activity for seeing the participants' appreciation of what they did.
"We are doing this to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the cooperative movement; so that they could put into practice the seventh principle which is the concern for community, and hopefully, they will re-register their cooperative as soonest as possible," Floredeliza Corcuera said, the emcee of the activity, as a closing remarks.
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DAR Bohol tops again
by: Merly D. Bantugan (DARPO-Bohol)
Publishing Date: February 01, 2010 (10:10 AM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform in the Province of Bohol once again surpassed its mandated target on land acquisition and distribution, delivery of agrarian justice and support to agrarian farmers.
"Congratulations for the Boholano workforce", this was the statement of Director Rodolfo T. Inson of Region 7 during the 2009 DAR Regional Assessment and 2010 Planning Workshop held at the Applied Nutrition Center in Banilad, Cebu City last January 13-14.
On Land Tenure and Improvement (LTI), DAR Bohol is tasked to deliver 698 hectares to 578 farmer beneficiaries but Dr. Ronald Pumatong, Acting Chief of the Operations Division informed that 713.8047 hectares were distributed to 804 agrarian farmers or a total of 102%. On Leasehold Operation, 110% was accomplished covering 100.3206 hectares to 168 agrarian farmers.
Engr. Aljer Domapias, Chief of the Land Survey Unit of DARPO Bohol also bared that under the direct administration survey of new lands, 101% was accomplished covering 239.0568 hectares from the 236 hectares target.
On the delivery of agrarian justice, Atty. Mary Lynn Añora, Acting Chief of the Legal Assistance Division here said that more than 100% was accomplished in terms of the adjudication of agrarian cases, legal assistance, conciliation/counseling and resolution of agrarian cases.
Under the Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD), the division tasked to oversee the support services for the agrarian farmers headed by Eddie E. Manginsay, Acting Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer I and concurrent Chief of the BDCD said that his division surpassed its target in terms of a Sustained Management on Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and Profitable Enterprise to its organizations; Access to Micro-finance; Social Infrastructure and Local Capability Building; Capacity Development and Training of the ARBs and its organizations; Sustainable Agri-business and Rural Enterprise Development; Access Facilitation and Services, among others.
Moreover, Dr. Antonio A. del Socorro, the new Acting PARO II said that DARPO Bohol also did not fall short when it comes to the other components beneficial to its workforce and the public like managing the bureaucracy in terms of human resource development and training, managing the public through the linkage with partner agencies and local government units and its advocacy programs.
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DAR-ARISP & NIA Turn-over the CIS project to the farmer's association in Casiguran
by: Lut Arbolente (DARPO-Sorsogon)
Publishing Date: January 20, 2010 (02:17 PM)
FINALLY, the Communal Irrigation System project of DAR-Sorsogon under the ARISP (Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project) II was completed and it was turned-over by DAR and NIA to the Tigbao-Banawang Irrigator's Association in Casiguran ARC Cluster B.
"We did a series of meetings and consultations, identifying what structures you need, then, we implemented it. This time, we are turning this over to you. Now, the responsibility no longer belongs to DAR and NIA but yours. Meaning, you are already the one to supply water in the riceland," said by Leto P. Bernal, Irrigator's Development Section chief of NIA Sorsogon to the association during the turn-over ceremony held at Tigbao, Casiguran.
Rodrigo Estremera, MARO of Casiguran said that the objective of this project is to increase the farmer's rice production to the point that from their income they will be able to give their children the right education.
Salvador Hife, president of the association expressed his appreciation and gratitude to DAR-ARISP2 and the NIA for this very beneficial project. He said that the association had agreed to allot 75 kilos of palay per hectare every harvest to fund the CIS' maintenance, in contrast to the belief of other farmers that this is a payment, thus, they don't want to give a share. Hife clarified to them that this is not a payment but for the maintenance since the responsibility of taking care of it is already in their hands.
This CIS is serving a total of 89 hectares of riceland covering Brgy. Tigbao and Brgy. Banawang. The source of water comes from Talinga River where a dam was constructed also through ARISP2 in Brgy. Tigbao. The project started in 2004 and completed last year (2008) and 112 farmers are benefiting from this.
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Moalboal farmers receive land titles
by: Rosanna Gay S. Visitacion (DARPO-Cebu)
Publishing Date: January 20, 2010 (02:05 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of Cebu Province distributed 15 Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) to 14 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB) covering 12.3053 hectares award to children covered under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) located in Moalboal, Cebu.
The CLOA distribution was led by Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) II Stephen M. Leonidas, CESO V, Moalboal Mayor Yvonne Cabarron and Vice Mayor Nelson Abenido last December 15, 2009 held at the Municipal Hall, Poblacion, Moalboal, Cebu.
Mayor Cabarron congratulated the beneficiaries and thanked the DAR for facilitating the titling of these land. She showed appreciation to Municipal Agrarian Reform Officer (MARO) Liza Toroy who is actively implementating CARP in her town. She was pleased the DAR presented the Agrarian Reform Community Development Plan (ARCDP) and assured support to MARO Toroy in the implementation of the DAR programs in her town.
PARO Leonidas expressed gratefulness to Mayor Cabarron's support in the implementation of CARP in Moalboal town. He thanked the Local Government Chief Executive commendation given to MARO Toroy in recognition of her achievement in the municipality.
PARO Leonidas requested that the ARCDP, a 5 year development plan which incorporates DAR projects and priorities will be endorsed and adopted by the Sangguiniang Bayan and that this will be incorporated in the Municipal Development Plan . He informed the body that with the 150 B funds on the approved five -year extension of CARP, 40 % goes to the CARP component on delivery of support services. He is looking forward that not only the land distribution program will be achieved in Moalboal ,but also with the approval of ARCDP, more projects will be delivered in support services delivery in close coordination and support of the LGU. The ARCDP's main thrust is to increase the income and improve the quality of life of our farmers.
Among others who attended the occasion were the Moalboal municipal councilors Inocentes Cabarron, Conrado Tejero and Marcelino Deneiga, MARO Doris Velos (Ronda), MARO Erlinda Alegado (Badian), and OIC MARO Jaynes James Abarrientos (Dumanjug) and DAR municipal personnel.
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DAR distributes land titles in Sibonga
by: Rosanna Gay S. Visitacion (DARPO-Cebu)
Publishing Date: January 20, 2010 (12:02 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Cebu Province distributed 41 collective and individual Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) to 70 agrarian reform beneficiaries covering 79.5806 hectares of voluntary land transfer (VLT) scheme and award to children covered under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) located in barangays Basak, Bae, Cagay , Manatad, Tubod, Sayaw, Guimbakoan and Papan, Sibonga , Cebu
Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) II Stephen M. Leonidas, CESO V, OIC PARO I Paulino R. Tudlasan, Jr. and guest retired Department of Agriculture information Officer Luisa Codilla, representing Sibonga Municipal Councilor Tomas Codilla, Chairman of the Agriculture led the land distribution last December 18, 2009 held at Poblacion, Sibonga, Cebu.
PARO Leonidas encouraged the beneficiaries to use the land and value it by making the land productive. "Presently, with the five-year extension of CARP it is our desire to continue to serve the farmers "said PARO Leonidas "We realize it would be a challenge to be part of the their land productivity and improvement of the farmer's lives. Bear in mind that DAR and other coordinating agencies in the implementation of the CARPER law exist because of the farmers" he added. He also urged the beneficiaries, that right after the land distribution ceremony they would go to the Assessor's office for the assessment of their land and to religiously pay their taxes, as this is one of their responsibilities as new landowners of the land.
Among others who attended the simple land distribution ceremony were DAR Cebu Land Acquisition and Distribution (LAD) Section Chief MARO Lourdes Archua, Municipal Agrarian Reform Officer (MARO) Marietta Arriesgado (Sibonga), MARO Leticia Decena (Mandaue City and Cordova), MARO Jessica Carvajal, MARO Hermocelia Labra (Carcar) and DAR municipal personnel Sevillano del Mar, Marietta Alcantara, and Mary Jane Rama.
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DAR Neg. Or. Congratulates PARO Fua
by: Aileen Alaban-Villaseca
Publishing Date: January 20, 2010 (11:55 PM)
The Department of Agrarian Reform-Negros Oriental employees congratulate Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Grace B. Fua for having been conferred with Career Executive Service (CES) Eligibility last December 9, 2009 by the Career Executive Service Board.
Also, PARO Fua took her Oath of Office as full fledged PARO II before DAR Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman in Manila last Dec. 18, 2009.
Her appointment was recently released by the Office of the President in recognition of her dedicated service and vast experience in the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program.
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