Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)

DAR kicks off Women's Month with Alay Lakad --- Publishing Date: Tuesday, March 5, 2010 (10:55 AM)

To kick off the Women's Month Celebration, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) launched a walk for a cause with the theme: "Lakad, Alay sa Taga DAR" at Quezon City Memorial Circle yesterday. The activity aimed to support its employees who are afflicted with Cancer.

The program is in line with the DAR Women's Month Celebration's Theme: "DAR goes Clean Green and Lean" as it also promotes health and wellness among its employees.

DAR's Gender and Development (GAD) Technical Working Group organized this event to raise a start up fund for the DAR employees diagnosed with Cancer. Participants were required a registration fee of one hundred pesos. Likewise, those who did not join can still contribute by chipping in the said amount or through a minimum sponsorship fee of one thousand pesos.

"This worthy cause is our little way to give out something for our co-employees who are struggling to survive with their illness while instilling among DAR employees the value of sharing as well," DAR GAD TWG Chairperson Director Erlinda Manluctao said.

It is also through this program that the employees learn the importance of a healthy mind and body through exercise and work out.

Some P30, 000 has been collected from the participants and the donors. The GAD Steering Committee will be arranging a system on how to award the amount to the program beneficiaries. The funds are collected and managed by the Special Concern Service of the DAR .

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Western Visayas resolved highest agrarian case – DAR --- Publishing Date: Monday, March 8, 2010 (09:25 AM)

Agrarian reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman commended the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) region 6 office for having the highest case resolution rate among other DAR regional offices.

Pangandaman said the DAR-6, otherwise called Western Visayas region, which compose of Aklan, Antique, Negros Occidental, Capiz, Guimaras and Iloilo provinces, resolved 5,036 agrarian cases in 2009. The other DAR regional offices that delivered high case resolution are DAR region 3 with 3,890 and DAR-7 with 2,701, while the other regional offices resolved almost identical figures with more than a thousand agrarian cases.

“All in all, the cases resolved by DAR nationwide last year is 24,672 out of 33,550 agrarian cases, which is a positive indication that the department is in very much on track in its bid for zero-backlog in agrarian cases within five years,” Pangandaman said.

Pangandaman added he expects to chip little by little from the 8,878 pending cases at the Department of Agrarian Reform Adjudication Board (DARAB) until it accomplishes a zero balance by the end of 2014.

“The Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program with extension reform (CARPer) has only five-year duration. To attain this goal, the department directed the DARAB and Legal Affairs Office (LAO) to simplify and shorten the legal proceedings by doing away with unnecessary steps that only contribute to the delay in the resolution cases,” the Secretary said.

The DAR head added that priority should also be given to land acquisition and distribution-related cases, flashpoint and cases involving bigger hectarage in the disposition and resolution of cases.

Pangandaman further added that one legal strategy that works well is the classification of cases according to their age where older cases get the highest priority.

DAR prepares CARP Five Year Implementing Program --- Publishing Date: Thursday, March 4, 2010 (4:46 PM)

To come up with the CARP Five Year Implementing Program, the Department of Agrarian Reform in coordination with the PARC Secretariat and the CIAs and Oversight Agencies held a Strategic Planning Workshop for the Formulation of the CARP Five-Year Implementing Program and Budget (2009 -2014) on March 2-5, 2010 with Cong. Elias Bulut as Guest of Honor.

The event was attended by members of CARP Implementing agencies such as the DENR, Land Bank of the Philippines, LRA, DPWH, NIA, DTI, and DOLE-BWSC, Representatives from oversight agencies such as the NEDA, DBM and the House Committee on Agrarian Reform and the Senate Committee on Agrarian Reform also participated in the planning workshop.

Cong. Bulut delivered an inspirational message and provided updates on the organization of the Congressional Oversight Committee on Agrarian Reform (COCAR).

The Strategic planning workshop was aimed at reviewing the DAR vision and mission in the light o RA 9700 or the CARPER Law. After completing the implementing rules and regulations of the law, the DAR has initiated the strategic planning workshop to formulate the CARP Five Year Implementing program and budget so that the implementation of CARPER for the next four years will be done in the most efficient, effective and harmonious manner and in accordance with the provisions of the new law and its IRRs.

ARCP 2 pours foreign-assisted projects in Region 8 --- Publishing Date: Thursday, March 4, 2010 (3:23 PM)

Agrarian reform beneficiaries in Region 8 will soon enjoy greater economic opportunities as the government, in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), pours various rural infrastructure projects in support of the country's sustainable rural development program.

The multi-million peso projects include, farm-to-market roads, post-harvest facilities, irrigation and potable water supply systems, all aimed at improving the rural folk's living condition.

DAR Secretary Nasser Pangandaman said the development of Region 8, being one of the poorest regions in the country, aims to reduce the incidence of poverty and raise the standard of living of farmers.

"Region 8, whose residents consist mainly of farmers and fishermen, will greatly benefit from these infrastructure facilities. These [infra projects] will enhance the rural economy and in the process, create job opportunities in the region," Pangandaman said.

The five-year project is under the Second Agrarian Reform Communities Project (ARCP 2) and covers 40 agrarian reform communities. It will help 29,604 farmer-beneficiaries of Leyte, Eastern Samar, Western Samar and Northern Samar.

DAR will also construct day care centers and school buildings for the indigenous peoples of the region.

Pangandaman said the provision of day care centers and school buildings are part of the department's community-driven development program to address the literacy needs of children of the Manobo and Mamanwa tribes.

Pangandaman added that the continuing support provided by the ADB and other partners in the donor community "is a testament to the capability and credibility of DAR to implement large-scale development projects under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP)."

DAR to distribute 6,000 hectares of land in Leyte --- Publishing Date: Monday, March 1, 2010 (9:27 AM)

Tacloban City, Leyte - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in this province is set to distribute 6,450 hectares of agricultural lands to the farmer-beneficiaries under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

Provinicial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) Oscar Reloj said the move is in compliance with the DAR's 200,000 hectares of land distribution target for this year.

Reloj stressed that the said target is attainable because the restoration of the compulsory acquisition (CA), which is one of the modes for acquiring land for distribution, boosted the morale of the field implementers to pursue land distribution.

The CA was restored through Republic Act 9700, which was signed last year by President Gloria Arroyo, to further strengthen and extend the CARP for five more years. The other modes for land acquisitions are voluntary offer to sell (VOS) and voluntary land transfer (VLT).

"The DAR normally resorts to CA scheme when concerned landowners refuse to give up their properties for CARP," Reloj added.

Leyte farmer Norman Tiglao said he is excited for the department's effort to distribute lands

because he is one among the hopeful farmers who want to have their own farm.

On the other hand, agrarian reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman commended the DAR-Leyte on its huge target of lands for distribution.

"I am hoping that the DAR would meet its target this year. The last time it breached the 200,000 hectare mark was in 1997, wherein the bulk of which were government-owned lands," he said.

Pangandaman added that he is confident that the DAR would make a good account for itself this 2010, citing marked improvements in past dealings with landowners, many of them have started cooperating with DAR upon sensing that they could not skirt the program after Congress restored the compulsory acquisition scheme in the amended law.

DAR turns over water and sanitation facility in Isabela --- Publishing Date: Monday, March 1, 2010 (9:22 AM)

Tumauini, Isabela- in response to the water borne diseases that ail the agrarian reform communities, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in partnership with the Philippine Center for Water and Sanitation (PCWS) turned over a potable water supply and sanitation system to the residents of Brgy. Fermeldy.

The Community Managed Potable Water Sanitation and Hygiene called the (CPWASH), consists of biogas digester, iron removal filter and bio sand filter. These are low-cost, indigenous material based and pro-poor technology to improve access to water supply and proper sanitation services.

The iron removal filter attached to the deep well pump eliminates iron bearing water as well as the smell by using charcoal base, sand and gravel filter, it can benefit up to 35 households while the smaller bio sand filter and biogas digester benefits one household.

"Mabbalo ta DAR, MLGU and PCWS ta panangiyawa ta project ta brgy. mi" (thank you to the DAR, MLGU and PCWS for the project that you gave our barangay) iron removal filter beneficiary Neil Malazzab expressed during the turn over.

The project is made possible by the DAR, which pays for the workers' and facilitators' food, board and lodging and honoraria. The municipal local government unit (MLGU) shoulders the cost of materials while the cooperative in the area provides for the construction manpower and indigenous materials. The PCWS provides the engineering technology through trainings and hands-on construction.

"This project heightens your awareness on the importance of potable water system and sanitation. I keep my confidence that you will maintain and operate these facilities for the benefit of everyone," ARDO for operation Jun Paramon said.

The agrarian reform communities (ARC) in Occidental Mindoro and Cagayan served as the pilot testing sites back in 2008 and it has been operational since then. Isabela, Benguet, Ifugao, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, Palawan, Masbate, Leyte, Surigao del Norte and Agusan Sur are among the ten expansion areas to receive such facilities in the coming months.

DAR holds General Orientation/Workshop and Planning Conference for ARMM --- Publishing Date: Thursday, February 25, 2010 (5:09 PM)

The Department of Agrarian Reform held a General Orientation Workshop and Planning conference for ARMM in Cagayan De Oro on February 22-26,2010 attended by DAR-ARMM Regional Officers, PAROs, CARPOs for PMEU, Computer programmers, and administrative staff. DARCO Officials served as Resource Persons and Speakers of the said orientation.

The orientation and planning workshop aims to strategize for the accomplishment of the ARMM's 5-year LAD Balances, firm up 5-year plan of activities with its corresponding financial accomplishments, present / discuss the salient features of RA 9700 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations and to present/discuss the Enhanced Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation (PME) system of the Department.

Since ARMM has no no designated PARCCOM members, the issue on PARCCOM formation was also included in the discussion to be facilitated by the PARC Secretariat.

In addition, the activity is also deemed to foster closer coordination and working relations with the new DAR-ARMM leadership.

The Policy, Planning and External Affairs Office spearhead and facilitated the overall activities in coordination with the DAR Regional Office n Cagayan de Oro and the DAR-ARMM.

DAR introduces natural farming --- Publishing Date: Tuesday, February 23, 2010 (11:23 AM)

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) started farmers' trainings on Natural Farming System under the second phase of the Agrarian Reform Communities Project (ARCP 2).

Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman said that the training aims to promote awareness of the positive gains in natural farming versus conventional farming and to adopt the technology in the farmers' own fields.

"These trainings will provide farmers the skills and know-how in the natural ways of farming without harming the environment and without health hazards to farmers, crops and its yield," said Pangandaman.

Studies show that the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has greatly degraded the rural environment. Farmlands are poisoned due to the accumulation of chemicals in the soil.

Studies also show that using chemicals has increased the incidence of pests and animal diseases thereby causing low crop production. It also affects the health of farmers and consumers because the chemicals used in farming leaves residues on agri products.

"To address these problems, our option is to go back to the basics of farming. This technology utilizes local natural resources like making their own fertilizer through composting. It will be beneficial [for farmers] to adopt this as it was tried and proven in countries like Japan, Korea, India and Sweden," Pangandaman added.

The "Natural Farming System" course that will end this March covers 152 agrarian reform communities (ARCs) located in Marinduque, Romblon, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Sorsogon, Negros Occidental, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Western Samar, Leyte, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Tawi-tawi, Sulu and Shariff Kabunsuan.

"Providing lands to farmers is not the only solution to address poverty, but also by providing assistance through training for farmers to be able to help themselves in sustaining high productivity and income," said Pangandaman.

DAR acts on climate change --- Publishing Date: Tuesday, February 23, 2010 (11:20 AM)

Baguio City - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently conducted a consultation workshop to bring awareness to agrarian reform personnel the destructive impact of the global warming.

DAR Cordillera Autonomous Region (CAR) Director Renato Navata said the disasters like Ondoy, Pepeng and Benguet landslides that struck the country could be blamed to global warming.

"Global warming or climate change means that earth's temperature increased in faster rate; as a result, sea level rise, heat waves increase and an storm are intensified, which cause cyclone, landslide, flood and other calamities," Navata explained.

Navata added that the main reason of this phenomenon is the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gases, which release huge amount of carbon dioxide into the air.

He added that other chemicals can also contribute in climate change such as the methane release from cultivation and fermentation in cattle, and nitrous oxide releases from fertilizer application.

"To mitigate these growing concerns, the DAR will conduct eco-friendly trainings on micro-irrigation technologies, water harvesting and mini/micro hydro-power projects to the farmers," Navata said.

Agrarian reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman commended the DAR-CAR on its move to educate people by beginning in their own backyard.

"I learned from World Bank report that the typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng had pushed 480,000 people into poverty, a total of P50.3-billion lost of income to the people affected and 850 tons of rice lost. It is estimated that we need to spend P208-billion until 2012 to recover from that devastation," Pangandaman divulged. He added that that huge sum of money could be used in boosting the country's economy, if we have been prepared or even avoided the destructive effect of these disasters.

"I hope that other agency would follow the DAR-CAR's initiative. Bringing the climate change concerns to people's consciousness is a big step in combating this worsening global problem," Pangandaman said.

Navata added that the DAR-CAR will improve all the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program's (CARP) stakeholders' participation in research, training and education programs to be aware in their farming practices. Navata divulged that changes in farm inputs, timing, tillage, as well as, crop rotation, crop choice, crop diversification, and crop harvesting processing can also contribute in alleviating the problem.

"The DAR-CAR implements this awareness on global warming concerns because Benguet province, which is covered by this region, has the highest area vulnerable to landslide, which is 93,093 hectares. Other provinces with landslide vulnerability in this region include Ifugao with 25,345 has., Mt. Province with4,275has., Kalinga with 7915 has., and Apayao with 8,210 has.," Navata said.

Joseph Garcia, CARP stakeholder, said he never knew how devastating is the impact of climate change until he attended this workshop. "From now on, I will participate in activities saving our world from global warming. In my little way, I will help by decreasing my consumption of fuels, be more aware in my farming activities and segregating our trash," he said.

Guidelines on Valuation and LO Compensation of tenanted rice and corn lands under PD 27 & EO 228 released --- Publishing Date: Friday, February 19, 2010 (04:19 PM)

The Department of Agrarian Reform has issued its first Administrative Order for the year. This is DAR Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 2010 titled "Rules and Regulations on valuation and landowners compensation involving tenanted rice and corn lands under Presidential Decree (PD) No. 27 and Executive Order (EO) No. 228."

Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman lauded the preparation and issuance of the said guidelines saying this will address the persistent problem of Landowners' refusal to accept valuation of their lands due to "low valuation complaints" for tenanted rice and corn lands covered under PD 27 and EO 228.

Under the said AO, "all previously acquired lands wherein valuation is subject to challenge by landowners shall be completed and finally resolved pursuant to section 17 of RA 6657,as amended." The word "challenge is an expression of non-acceptance of valuation by the landowner through filing of just compensation case in Court, written protest or similar instruments or impliedly thru non-compliance to submit pre-payment / documentary requirements despite receipt of notice or demand."

The coverage of this guidelines are "A. lands already distributed by the DAR to the farmer-beneficiaries where documentation and/or valuation are/is not yet complete (DNYD) claims; B. PD 27/EO 228 claims with the LBP where: 1. the DAR valuation is rejected by the landowner or 2. the DAR valuation is undergoing summary proceeding with the DARAB or just compensation case with the Court or 3. the Landowner accepts the original valuation under protest or without prejudice to the determination of just compensation or 4. the landowner refuses or fails to submit or comply with the prepayment/documentary requirements under PD 27/EO 228 despite receipt of notice of demand. C. Rice and Corn Lands under PD 27 falling under Phase 1 of RA 9700.

DAR AO 1, S 2010 also states that "1. All PD 27 and EO 228 claims not yet valued by DAR shall continuously valued by DAR pursuant to PD 27/EO 228 formula; 2.The basis of amortization by the farmer-beneficiary shall be the DAR valuation determined pursuant to PD 27/EO 228 formula; 3. Claims covered under PD 27/EO 228 and revalued under RA 6657 or RA 9700 shall no longer be entitled to the coverage of DAR AO 13,s-1994, DAR AO 2, s-2004 and DAR AO 6,s-2008; and 4. the final survey documents shall be submitted by DAR to LBP prior to any revaluation.

Pangandaman: Palawan not just a tourist hub --- Publishing Date: Friday, February 19, 2010 (02:23 PM)

Puerto Princesa, Palawan – Palawan’s agrarian reform is on its headway to be known not just as tourist haven but also as farmers’ zone

Palawan, popular for its amazing variety of flora and fauna, targeted to distribute this year a total of 2,200 hectares of agricultural land to the farmer-beneficiaries under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer Conrado Guevarra said the move is in compliance with the Department of Agrarian Reform’s (DAR) 200,000 hectares of land distribution target nationwide.

Guevarra added that at least 8,000 homelots with aggregate area of 526 hectares located in the municipality of Narra, and Aborlan are included in the said distribution.

Mang Doming, a farmer and Tamiloc-seller from Takamin agrarian reform community (ARC), said he appreciated the DAR for its effort in boosting the farmers’ economic life. “The DAR provided us land and helped us enrich it by conducting various agricultural training, as well as the construction of infrastructure projects to give us more and easier access to wider markets,” he said.

He added that his selling of edible woodworm Tamiloc, an exotic food loved by both local and foreign visitors, takes place along the side of farm-to-market road, which was constructed by the DAR.

On the other hand, agrarian reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman commended the DAR-Palawan for its excellent implementation of land distribution last year.

Pangandaman said in spite of CARP’s difficulties last year, Palawan managed to distribute 112% of its target land distribution, which was 506 hectares out of 450 hectares target.

“For the last two years, before the CARP extension with reform was signed into law last August, the DAR’s land distribution is limited only to two schemes: voluntary offer to sell (VOS) and voluntary land transfer (VLT). The other scheme, which was compulsory acquisition, was not allowed because CARP had already expired then,” Pangandaman said.

“I would not be surprised if this province, including its mountainous and far-flung areas, becomes one of the most progressive agricultural provinces in the Philippines. The officials here are full supportive of the DAR, which was evidently seen in the efforts of Palawan Congressman Abraham Mitra pushing for CARP extension last year,” the Secretary added.

The RA 9700 or CARP extension with reform, which was signed by President Gloria Arroyo last year of August, amended certain provisions of RA 6657 to further strengthen the CARP and extend it for five more years.

DAR Ranked 6th during the PAGCs 2009 2nd Semester Awarding of the IDAP-Compliant Agencies --- Publishing Date: Thursday, February 18, 2010 (08:24 AM)

DAR ranked 6th during the 2nd semester awarding of the Integrity development Action Plan (IDAP)-complaint agencies out of 177 national government agencies on February 9,2010 at Diosdado Macapagal Hall, Land Bank of the Philippines. This is the 2nd time the Department received recognition from the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission (PAGC). The first time was last year during the 1st Semester Awarding where the Department also ranked 6th but out of 109 agencies only.

For DAR, this is a very meaningful and fulfilling achievement especially to the Honorable Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman, the Integrity Development Committee (IDC) headed by Asst. Secretary Edgar A. Igano, the IDC members, the different process owners at the Central Office, as well as the regional and Provincial IDCs (RIDCs/PIDCs) of the Department which religiously complied and accomplished the IDAP under the PAGC. Likewise, the IDC expresses its gratitude to USEC. Narciso Nieto of FMAO for the financial support to all the IDC activities.

The IDC and the Department as a whole has to work harder to increase its IDAP rating and ranking for 2010.

National Work and Financial Planning starts tomorrow --- Publishing Date: Tuesday, February 16, 2010 (03:44 PM)

The National Conference on the Preparation of the DAR's CY 2010 Work and Financial Plan starts tomorrow in Binalonan, Pangasinan. It will be attended by Central and Field Officials as well as by the Regional Directors, ARDOs, ARDAs, CARPOs and for Planning and Budget Officers from the regional offices.

The conference aims to discuss and make the participants gain understanding of the national perspective of the Department's CY 2009 accomplishment and cumulative program performance and balances, DAR's thrust and Priorities for CY 2010 and CARP and DAR's CY 2010 budget as approved by Congress. It also aims to orient the participants on the general and specific guidelines on the preparation of the Regional and Provincial Work and Financial Plan for 2010. And to firm up the regional distribution of selected MFO targets and direct costs for CY 2010 based on the approved budget allocations and firm up the regional allocation of budget for mandatory expenditures and Personal services.

The conference ends on Friday, February 19, 2010.

DAR turns over P47-M road projects in Cam Sur --- Publishing Date: Monday, February 15, 2010 (02:56 PM)

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) turned over some P47.8 million worth of farm-to-market roads to boost business activities in rural communities in Camarines Sur.

DAR Regional Director Celestina Tam disclosed that one of DAR’s thrust is to build roads that will connect agrarian reform communities (ARCs) to major business centers. “The ARC connectivity will make it easier to provide our rural communities with support services.”

One of the farm-to-market roads is the concreting of the 10 kilometer junction road in Ragay with a total cost of P23.9 million. The road will cover six Barangays namely: Tuos, Sabang, Malinao, Iwang and Inugikan.

The junction road will lessen travel time and transport cost of farmers and will be easier for the residents in commuting from place to place. It will also hasten the mobility of goods and services for the residents.

Also turned over is the 2.91 kilometer Batang-Tambo road in Barangay Batang worth P15 million and the 1.9 kilometer Veneracion Zones 1-5 road in Barangay Veneracion worth P8.9 million in Pamplona, Camarines Sur.

According to Tam, some 6,000 residents of these communities, mostly agrarian reform beneficiaries benefit from these projects, “They are now able to transport agri products to the business center with less time and cost.”

“The construction of roads to rural areas specifically in ARCs is essential for the farmers to be able to increase farm production and become productive members of their community and in the process, enhance the rural economy to create job opportunities,” Tam said.

During the turn over ceremony, Rep. Dato Arroyo of 1st District of Camarines Sur stressed the importance of the government’s efforts to reach out to barangays that still need development assistance.

The projects were funded by the World Bank under the second phase of the Agrarian Reform Community Development Project (ARCDP 2). The roads were completed in cooperation with the local government, which provided counterpart funds.

ARCs are clusters of barangays with farmer-beneficiaries awarded by DAR with lands and with convergence of development initiatives from government agencies, LGUs, NGOs and foreign donor communities.

Sec. Pangandaman called for stronger ties and efforts among CIRDAP member countries on the promotion of rural development --- Publishing Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 (03:18 PM)

(Dhaka, Bangladesh). Governments must prioritize agriculture and rural development to eradicate poverty and hunger as well as improve the welfare of the rural poor across different developing nations in Asia and the Pacific.

DAR Secretary and Chairperson of the 16th CIRDAP Governing Council of the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) Nasser C. Pangandaman made this statement during the inaugural session of the CIRDAP 17th Governing Council meeting held in Hotel Sheraton in Dhaka, Bangladesh on 26 January 2010. He said that governments of CIRDAP member countries (CMCs) have to have a well-defined and innovative program-means to fight poverty and promote the welfare of the rural poor. He added that CMCs must maximize its participation in CIRDAP and to remain committed in strengthening regional collaboration to combat poverty and continuously craft and implement programs designed to advance rural development, agriculture, and food security in the region.

During the meeting, the CMCs are expected to make critical decisions on how best to position CIRDAP as a regional policy making body and define priorities as well as targets of achieving its goals and commitments contained in the Dhaka Declaration on Rural Development 2010.

Sec. Pangandaman explained that the changeover meeting of CIRDAP this year is critical because it would signal the call for transformation and innovations in CIRDAP from its inception period when the regional integration concept was initiated and to make it more responsive to the new and emerging development in its environment that significantly impacts on the direction and policies on rural development of its CMCs.

He cited that over the past decades, Asia and the Pacific region has experienced rapid growth that produced essential changes that impact on how governments handle new realities and opportunities in terms of policy and program intervention development. The Secretary mentioned that these development changes coupled with shift in development aid and financial landscape have created a need and an opportunity for the CIRDAP to reposition itself and lay down a new strategic direction to enable it to embark on development initiatives supportive of the needs and demands of its member-countries.

Sec. Pangandaman further shared that in order to prepare the CIRDAP member countries (CMCs) and craft innovative rural development interventions, the GC-16 of CIRDAP which he served as a Chair, had decided in CY 2009 in Manila. Philippines, to call for a review of the Rural Development (RD) and Poverty Alleviation (PA) policies and experiences of the CMCs and evaluate CIRDAP from its strategic and institutional perspectives. The evaluation study conducted, he added, showed that that regional cooperation among CMCs is imperative to address poverty and deprivation and that CIRDAP has to take bolder steps in pursuing platforms for regional cooperation, policy development, learning and experts' exchanges on RD and PA in the region.

The Secretary urged the delegates from CMCs, representatives of development partners, and other ARRD stakeholder who attended the 5-day Second Ministerial Meeting on Rural Development to strengthen and or renew their cooperation and commitment in supporting CIRDAP's strategic role as a regional think tank in the field of rural development work in Asia and the Pacific.

Secretary Pangandaman headed the Philippine delegation who attended the 5-day CIRDAP Ministerial meeting in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The Philippines was elected in CY 2008 to Chair the CIRDAP Governing Council (GC) and Executive Committee (EC). Secretary Pangandaman is the out-going GC chair while BARBD's OIC Director Ma. Elena C. Cabañes is the out-going EC chair. Both committees are the highest policy-making body of the CIRDAP whose member countries represented by the plenipotentiaries through their respective designate-contact agency and link institutions: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Iran, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

DAR to distribute more private lands in Region 1 --- Publishing Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 (09:10 AM)

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) will prioritize the coverage of private agricultural lands to ensure the distribution of privately-owned lands before the extension of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) expires in 2014.

Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman earlier directed all DAR field officials to issue notices of coverage to all identified landholdings.

Pangandaman explained that the process of covering a landholding under CARP starts with the issuance of notices of coverage followed by several processes in accordance with the existing laws.

In line with this directive, Regional Director Homer Tobias disclosed that Region 1 has targeted to distribute the remaining 5,947 hectares of private lands for the next two years.

Region 1 which consist of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Panngasinan will distribute 4,800 hectares of agricultural lands this year and the remaining 1,147 hectares on 2011.

“With very few hectares of land remaining to be distributed, DAR-Region 1 will focus on providing our agrarian-beneficiaries with support services like health care, agri-business trainings, credit facilities and infrastructures to help them improve their standard of living,” Tobias said.

Tobias stated that DAR-Region 1 will construct six bridges in Ilocos Norte, four in Ilocos Sur, eight in La Union and 18 in Pangasinan.

The project is part of the “Tulay ng Pangulo Program,” a flagship project of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo which aims to build major bridges in far-flung rural communities.

Infrastructures like irrigation, post-harvest facilities and farm-to-market roads will also be constructed in the next five years under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project phase 3 (ARISP 3).

DAR-Region 1 continues to aid farmer-beneficiaries through their ongoing projects like installing community-based potable water systems, sanitation and hygiene systems, trainings on livelihood programs, product development, marketing assistance and providing credit facilities.

Tobias added that the provision of services remains a priority of DAR. Region 1 has 150 agrarian reform communities which are home to 220,862 agrarian beneficiaries. “All of them need support services such as these,” he said.

DARAB commended for high case resolution rate --- Publishing Date: Tuesday, February 09, 2010 (03:53 PM)

THE Department of Agrarian Reform Adjudication Board (DARAB) exceeded the expectations of many when it resolved last year a total of 24,672 out of the 33,550 agrarian cases for a high 145-percent resolution rate, DAR Secretary Nasser Pangandaman said Wednesday.

Pangandaman said the number of cases resolved by DARAB in 2009 is 7,365 cases more than its target of 17,037. It also eclipsed its 2008 record of 23,314 cases resolved, by 1,358 cases.

Pangandaman also announced that his office extended legal assistance to a total of 72,491 cases, resulting to the settlement of 67,786 cases.

“This is a very positive indication that we are very much on track in our bid for zero-backlog in agrarian cases within five years,” Pangandaman said.

The DAR chief said he expects to chip away little by little from the 8,878 pending cases at DARAB until his office accomplishes a zero balance by the end of 2014.

Earlier, Pangandaman directed the DARAB and the Legal Affairs Office to simplify and shorten legal proceedings by doing away with unnecessary steps that only contribute to the delay in the resolution of cases.

“We’ve got to hasten the resolution of cases, some of them are potential powder keg. But, in so doing, we should also exercise caution to preserve the integrity of our decisions,” he stressed. He listed as top priority the aged cases or the so-called “Monalisa” – “they lie there and just die there,” alluding to lyrics in a Nat King Cole song.

Pangandaman added that priority should also be given to land acquisition and distribution-related cases, flashpoint and cases involving bigger hectarage in the disposition and resolution of cases.

He also urged DARAB and the Legal Affairs Office to link arms with the Field Operations Office, ensuring that their staff are constantly interacting with each other through problem-solving workshops to determine as early as possible potential legal problems.

The DAR chief said his office is exploring various legal measures aimed at speeding up the delivery of agrarian justice in a bid to attain an ambitious zero-backlog within the duration of the agrarian reform program’s five-year extension period.

One legal strategy that works well and pleases him, he said, is the classification of cases according to their age where older cases get the highest priority.

He, however, cautioned them to ensure the adaptability and flexibility of all legal measures being considered, especially in cases that are as complex as those flashpoint cases in Negros Occidental and other highly volatile areas.

DAR to pursue alternative dispute resolution --- Publishing Date: Monday, February 08, 2010 (02:01 PM)

Agrarian reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman announced that the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) will aggressively implement the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in various agrarian disputes to reduce conflicts maturing into court cases.

The ADR or Republic Act No. 9285, which was signed by the President in 2006, is a state policy that promotes mediation, conciliation and arbitration in settling disputes. All executive branches of the government were encouraged to implement this scheme in resolving any disputes.

"While we are working on a zero-backlog in agrarian cases within the next five years, the department sees the potential of ADR to avoid agrarian disputes to falling into time and money-consuming court cases," Pangandaman said.

Pangandaman said that the ADR has proven to be very effective. He divulged that the DAR has 21,500 cases to be settled under this scheme for this year.

Pangandaman explained that ADR encourages disputing parties to sit together until they both reach a mutual agreement unlike in court rulings where losing parties oftentimes appeal their cases and became an addition to numerous unsettled cases.

"ADR is as simple as settling conflict in barangay level first before it goes up in higher court," Pangandaman further added.

The DAR central office had trained more personnel to handle ADR. Aurora Cabacang, one of the department's ADR specialist, said that in preparation for the all-out implementation of ADR, they already conducted an ADR seminar for the Central Luzon’s municipal agrarian reform officers (MAROs).

"While some of the field officers in the provinces are not trained yet to mediate, they can easily call our services because ADR is very accessible and inexpensive means to deliver impartial justice,” she added.

More Mindanao farmers can now get credit

Publishing Date: Monday, February 08, 2010 (11:01 AM)

Farmers in Caraga region can now have more opportunities to borrow money to make their lands productive, repair their houses, or send their children to school.

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), in partnership with the National Confederation of Cooperatives (Natcco) recently launched generous credit line facilities in Barobo, Surigao del Sur and Bayugan, Agusan del Sur in Caraga region.

Caraga Regional Director Faisar Mumbuay said the credit facility called “Micro Innovations in Cooperatives (Micoop)” offers multi-financial services such as loans for farm inputs, housing (repair), educational and health needs, among others.

Micoop is being funded by the World Bank under the DAR’s Second Agrarian Reform Community Development Program (WB-ARCDP 2).

Micoop will allot loan funds from P5 million to 10 million per cooperative to provide farmers’ organizations with microfinance and bank-like financial services to their members.

DAR, will also provide technical assistance to trainings and researches to hone farmers’ knowledge, skills and competencies.

Mambuay said he is confident the Micoop will address the problems that are besetting every farmer-beneficiary nationwide. Studies show that the lack of access to credit remains a major problem among farmers. Many of them approach loan sharks who charge excessive interest rates.

“Thank God for Micoop, now I don’t have to go to loan sharks for cash to buy farm inputs,” said farmer Dionisio Alcover of Dacutan Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (DFMPC) in Bayugan, Agusan del Sur.

So far, the partnership has benefited some 7,560 ARBs nationwide. More Micoops will be launched in Bukidnon, Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Palawan, Batangas and Catanduanes within the year.

Agraryo Scholars now accepted in DLSU-Dasma --- Publishing Date: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 (05:16 PM)

The Department of Agrarian Reform has forged an agreement with the De La Salle University Dasmariñas for the latter to accept Agraryo Scholars under the President Diosdado Macapagal Agrarian Scholarship Program.

Secretary Nasser Pangandaman was very happy that the Dela Salle community has opened its doors to Agraryo Scholars. He is also very proud that the premiere academic institution has deemed the Agraryo Iskolar program worthy of its support.

The Agraryo Iskolar Program was created by the DAR to give poor but deserving children of farmer beneficiaries' brighter opportunities in education. In the five years of its existence, the Department has collaborated with State Universities and colleges. The Department have also seen Summa cum laudes, Magna cum laudes, and Cum laudes among the ranks of farmers' children.

The Secretary was very pleased with the MOA signing between DAR and the DLSU-Dasmariñas calling it a "breakthrough in human development."

Part of the MOA with the DLSU-Dasmariñas is an immersion program wherein Dela Salle student will immerse themselves in farming communities. This will give students the opportunity to learn from institutions as well as learn directly from the people.

DAR distributes farmlands in Cebu province --- Publishing Date: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 (01:09 PM)

Cebu Province - The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently distributed 181.2 hectares of agricultural lands to 127 farmers in the province's four municipalities, which include Balamban, Sibonga, Moalboal and San Remigio.

Agrarian reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman said most of the lands distributed were under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program extension with reform's (CARPer) voluntary land transfer (VLT), a scheme where land owners enter a mutual agreement with farmers as the DAR facilitates the direct transfer of lands.

"I am glad that more landowners are now becoming more cooperative with the CARPer's cause," Pangandaman said. He further added that more people now realize the role of CARP in social justice, and with that kind of recognition, the DAR can even surpass its 200,000 hectares target of land distribution for the year

The other modes for land acquisition are voluntary offer to sell (VOS), which encourages landlords’ to offer their land in exchange for a five percent higher compensation in cash portion of their properties; and compulsory acquisition (CA) of the lands, where government expropriate landholdings whether their owners cooperate or not.

Balamban Mayor Alex Binghay reminded his constituents that with the lands they received and other support services they are enjoying, there is a corresponding responsibility for them, which is to take care of them and pay their obligations.

The Secretary stressed that CARPer law is not only about land distribution but also on implementation of support services, such as construction of infrastructure projects and access to agri-business opportunities to empower the farmers nationwide.

The CARPer law or Republic Act 9700, which was signed by President Gloria Arroyo last year, amended certain provisions of RA 6657 to further strengthen the CARP and extend it for five more years.

DBM issues interim authority to fill regular/permanent/itemized positions in government --- Publishing Date: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 (09:19 AM)

The Budget Department has recently authorized Department Secretaries / Agency/GOCC?GFI Heads to fill regular/permanent/itemized positions that are necessary in the performance of their vital/core functions from the effectivity of this Circular Letter up to 25 March 2010 (the last day for said personnel actions under COMELEC Resolution No. 8646 dated July 14,2009.

The filling of said positions is being authorized, subject to pertinent budgetary, civil service, accounting and auditing rules and regulations, and the following conditions:

Positions for filing are funded under the FY 2009 and the proposed FY 2010 budgets of the Department/Agency/GOCC/GFI.
The action would not entail additional budgetary release or the realignment of non-Personal Services (PS) funds to PS; and
The total number of filed positions in the Department/Agency/GOCC/GFI at the start of its rationalization efforts would not be exceeded, exclusive of teaching positions, medical and allied medical items in the hospitals, and uniformed positions."

Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman earlier wrote DBM Secretary Andaya on January 5, 2010 to reiterate his request for exemption from the prohibitions in filing up positions during the period of rationalization. He sought authority to fill critical positions in the Department to be able to comply with the mandate of RA 9700 or the CARPER Law. DAR has experienced a steady decline in the number of manpower complement due to compulsory retirement, resignation, and transfer of personnel to other agencies. This greatly affects the delivery of the department's major outputs given the five year CARP extension.

>>> Please click here to view the complete text of DBM Circular Letter No. 2010-3 dated January 29, 2010 or visit the dbm.gov.ph website.

Farmers can soon use land as collaterals --- Publishing Date: Monday, February 01, 2010 (01:06 PM)

Once the law is passed, farmers will be able to acquire farm equipment, machineries, seeds, fertilizers and other items for marketing, by availing of loans from financial institutions using their awarded land as collateral.

The House of Representatives committee on agrarian reform recently approved House Bill (HB) 3368 allowing Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) beneficiaries to use their lands as bank loan collateral.

“With access to production loans, farmers will be able to procure farm equipment to improve and develop their land, or they can establish a small business to increase their family income,” Pangandaman added.

Studies conducted show that, before, farmlands were not acceptable to banks as loan collateral because the distortion in the agricultural land market brought about by the government’s land distribution programs have lowered their exchange value.

Pangandaman observed that the lack of access to credit remains a major problem among farmer-beneficiaries many of who are forced to approach loan sharks who excise excessive interest rates.

There were also instances when farmer beneficiaries’ land titles were cancelled due to the absence of tillers and many farmers were forced by circumstances to mortgage their land for a temporary period, even on conditions that the bank/mortgagee shall take over the possession and cultivation of the land.

“This mode of cancellation of land titles is unjust and unfair to farmers who, by necessity, temporarily abandon the lands awarded to him,” laments Pangandaman.

Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman explained that the bill allows the farmer two years to redeem the mortgage of his right to the land. Otherwise, the land concerned will be redistributed to another qualified land reform beneficiary.

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) continues to deliver credit programs and support services to farmer beneficiaries through its Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD). The said program is designed to empower farmers by establishing farmer organizations, agrarian reform communities and other endeavors which offer various loan schemes.

As of June 2009, DAR has provided loan assistance amounting to P2.8 billion to 225,395 agrarian reform beneficiaries.

“The primary objective for the passage of this law is to stimulate private investment in agriculture to spur rural development and help uplift the economy, and at the same time, help farmers get much needed credit for their farm production and expand their facilities,” Pangandaman said.

DAR inaugurates P10 Million Irrigation facility system --- Publishing Date: Monday, February 01, 2010 (10:26 AM)

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) through the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Project Phase II (ARISP II) has teamed up with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) to turn over a P10.2 million communal irrigation system (CIS) to the Banawang Irrigator's Association in Casiguran, Sorsogon.

The ARISP II is funded by the Government of Japan under the Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC) in support of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. It delivers useful support services for the agrarian reform communities (ARC) nationwide to develop their lands.

ARISP II is one of the highly recognized projects under the agency's Official Development Assistance (ODA), and has achieved a 96% accomplishment rate in its Infrastructure development component. This represents 487 infrastructure subprojects which includes 133 irrigation and drainage facilities, 184 farm-to-market roads, 82 rural water systems and 68 post harvest facilities such as solar dryers, warehouses and Agrarian Information and Marketing (AIM-C) buildings .

The irrigation system covers a total of 28 hectares of Riceland in Brgy. Tigbao and Banawang, Casiguran. The rice production in the area rose up from 50 to 60 sacks per hectare to 80 to 90 sacks since the irrigation was completed.

"Our efforts to improve the small farmer's level of productivity is paying off as we make you no longer dependent on the wet season as the sole source of water for your farms. Furthermore, the responsibility for its maintenance is in your hands." Regional Director for Region V Celestina Tam said during the turn over.

With a gleeful heart, the farmer beneficiaries of the Casiguran ARC Cluster B accepted the facility promising to utilize it for the benefit of everyone concerned. Over a hundred farmer beneficiaries benefits from it.

Salvador Hife, the association's president said, "We have been waiting for this for years and we will be forever grateful to DAR and Japan for what they have given us.

Agrarian Chief chairs Second Ministerial Meeting of CIRDAP --- Publishing Date: Friday, January 29, 2010 (3:55 PM)

Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman attended the Second Ministerial Meeting of the Centre for Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) of which he is the Chairman of the Governing Council in Dhaka, Bangladesh on January 24 - 28,2010. The Secretary delivered the opening address and presided over the Governing Council meeting and delivered the position statement of the group. In 2007, the Philippines hosted the CIRDAP meeting held in Manila where the Secretary also presided over the Governing Council meeting as its Chairman.

After the CIRDAP meeting, the Secretary is expected to proceed to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to attend the peace talks as member of the GRP Peace Negotiating Panel with MILF.

Full Implementation of CARPER provisions in 2010 --- Publishing Date: Monday, January 25, 2010 (2:02 PM)

Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman directed the full implementation of the CARPER provisions in 2010 during the CY 2009 National Year-end Assessment and Planning Conference for CY 2010 held at the Oxford Hotel, Clark Special Economic Zone in Angeles City, Pampanga.

This annual performance review and planning conference gathered the Department's Central and Field Officials including the Regional Directors, Asst. Regional Directors for Operations, Asst. Regional Directors for Administration, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officers (PAROs) and the Regional Agrarian Reform Adjudicators (RARADs) nationwide.

In addition to the respective sectoral directives issued by the Undersecretaries for Field Operations, Support Services and Legal, the Secretary noted the need to attain the 200,000 hectares Land Acquisition and Distribution target for the year. This figure is much higher than the annual LAD target of the Department in the previous years, but he expressed confidence that this can be attained due largely to the restoration of the compulsory mode of acquiring lands and the increase in the budget given to us by Congress.

The 3-day assessment and planning conference was also attended by Officials of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao headed by DAR Asst. Regional Secretary Bai Henrietta Sinsuat Lidasan. Asst. Secretary and concurrent Head Executive Assistant Atty. Jim G. Coleto delivered the Welcome and Inspirational Remarks in the Opening Program, while Planning Director Leticia Damole provided the 2009 Agency Performance Report and PPEAO Undersecretary gave the Strategic Policy Directions for the year.

Downloadables:

DAR Caraga Oppose Violence Everywhere (DAR-COVE) launched --- Publishing Date: Thursday, January 21, 2010 (7:49 AM)

The DAR Regional Office in Caraga launched the Region-wide Women's Desk Officers and inducted the Officers of the DAR-Caraga Oppose Violence Everywhere (DAR-COVE) in simple ceremonies on January 15, 2010.

Atty. Jim G. Coleto, DARAB Assistant Secretary and concurrent Head Executive Assistant of the Office of the Secretary graced the occasion as Guest Speaker and Inducting Officer.

In his speech, Asec. Coleto lauded the DAR-Caraga for its pioneering efforts to organize the DAR-COVE, a male association in support to the implementation of GAD plans and programs of the region. "Hopefully, the association will grow and sustain its activities so that this can be replicated in the DAR Central, as well as in other Regional and Provincial offices.

"RA 9700 also known as the CARPER law is a legislation that is responsive to women", said Asec. Coleto. The recognition of women's right is evident in the inclusion of provisions for rural women such as the definition of rural women, their rights to own land and representation in decision-making bodies on agrarian reform, he added.

In closing, he urged the newly inducted DAR-COVE Officers and Women's Desk Officers to avail of the various seminars and workshops being conducted in the DAR regarding Gender and Development so that they can re-echo the relevant knowledge and information in their respective areas.

>>> Please click here to view complete text of the speech of Asec. Coleto.

DAR to hold CY 2009 Assessment & CY 2010 Conference next week --- Publishing Date: Thursday, January 14, 2010 (9:30 AM)

The Department of Agrarian Reform is set to conduct the CY 2009 Assessment and CY 2010 Planning Conference on January 21 - 23, 2010 at the Oxford Hotel in Angeles City, Pampanga.

Participants from the field offices required to attend are those with specific functional and geographical assignments such as Regional Directors, Asst. Regional Directors for .Operations (ARDOs), Asst. Regional Directors for Administration (ARDAs), Provincial Agrarian Reform Officers (PAROs) , and Regional Agrarian Reform Adjudicators (RARADs).

Participants from the Central Office are members of the DAR ExeCom and ManCom as well as technical staff from each of the sectors of LTI, PBD, AJD, FMAO, DARAB, PARC Secretariat and the PPEAO.

At the end of the planning conference, the Secretary is expected to issue his operational directives for the DAR 2010 Plans and Targets.

DAR optimistic with 2010 targets --- Publishing Date: Monday, January 11, 2010 (3:23 PM)

Employees of the Department of Agrarian Reform greeted the new year with a smile during their first flag raising ceremony for the year 2010 with the Secretary last January 4, 2010. The Secretary also raffled prizes/tokens for the employees during the morning ceremony as an auspicious beginning for the year.

In his remarks, the Secretary thanked all the Officials and employees of the Department for the support they have extended to the Management throughout the year. He also gave a report of accomplishments for the year ended in terms of LAD, Support Services and Delivery of Agrarian Justice. He expressed optimism that the Department will attain its 200,000 hectare land distribution target for the year 2010, due largely to the restoration of the compulsory land acquisition as one of the modes of acquiring lands under RA 9700 and the increase of the budget for the land reform.

In a related development, the Secretary has also ordered a reassignment/designation of Field Officials and Regional/Provincial Adjudicators. This is in line with the Department's continued efforts to attain maximum efficiency at the various Regional and Provincial Offices and salas of the DAR and the DARAB.

Meanwhile, the Field Operations Office, which is primarily responsible for the Land Acquisition and Distribution of the Department is set to conduct its annual 2009 National Assessment and Planning Conference for 2010 on the last week of January.