TAWI-TAWI – On November 20, 2024, newly appointed Barangay Agrarian Reform Committee (BARC) officials from the barangays of Magsaggaw, Parangan, and Balimbing, Panglima Sugala officially took their oaths at the Rosemin Sahali Gymnasium.
Hon. Nurbert M. Sahali, Mayor of Panglima Sugala, administered the oath-taking and expressed confidence in the BARCs’ potential to address the concerns of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in the municipality. He highlighted the progress of ARBs in the area, noting that many ARBs in his municipality had recently received their Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) and encouraged them to continue managing their lands productively.
BARCs serve a crucial function in the agrarian reform process as grassroots-level committees tasked with addressing disputes, facilitating the implementation of agrarian reform programs, and ensuring ARBs’ concerns are heard and resolved. They act as a vital link between ARBs and the government, providing a platform for dialogue and promoting sustainable farming practices within their communities.
Engr. Jimson Jalilul, Chief of Agrarian Reform Division, spearheaded the organization of the BARCs and expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the event. He emphasized the importance of the BARCs in ensuring that ARBs have the necessary support and representation at the barangay level.
Enp Nurulyn Laja, SuARPO, discussed the critical role of BARCs in resolving agrarian disputes and providing ARBs with a platform to address their concerns. She stressed that these committees are essential in bridging gaps, ensuring smoother program implementation.
MAFAR Municipal Officer Hja. Jainab Awali provided support to the BARC officials, reflecting her commitment to assisting ARBs in Panglima Sugala. Her involvement highlighted the importance of local leadership in making agrarian reform programs successful.
The event was fully supported by MAFAR Provincial Director Aidsrus Nami, whose leadership and guidance have played an important role in ensuring the successful implementation of agrarian reform initiatives in the province.
After the oath-taking, an orientation and lectures were held to ensure the BARC officials were well-prepared for their new roles. Engr. Jimson Jalilul, and Legal Assistant Araswil Julhari led the discussions, which focused on the functions and responsibilities of the BARCs. The sessions also covered important topics related to dispute resolution, program implementation, and effective support for ARBs.
As the day concluded, it became clear that the efforts put into organizing these BARCs are more than just a bureaucratic step, they are a promise for a better future for the people of Panglima Sugala. For the ARBs who now have a voice and support in their communities, the establishment of these committees signifies a new chapter in their journey toward empowerment and progress.
