DAR SIGNS PARTNERSHIP WITH BARMM GOVERNMENT TO STRENGTHEN THE LAWS ON AGRARIAN REFORM
The Department of Agrarian Reform and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao signed the Memorandum of Understanding that will further strengthen the Laws on Agrarian in Bangsamoro.
November 28, the signing was led by DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella, III and BARMM Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim together with Amilhilda J. Sangcopan, DAR, Undersecretary – Office for Mindanao Affairs, and MAFAR Minister Mohammad S. Yacob, Ph.D.
The MOU is to provide comprehensive assistance and support in implementing the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) within the Bangsamoro Regions through effective coordination and collaboration that guarantees peace and the protection of the rights and empowerment of the Bangsamoro people.
Minister Yacob warmly welcomed the officials and said, “As we witness a significant milestone of our collaborative journey through the MOU signing. This event symbolizes more than just a former agreement is a testament to our common goals toward fostering sustainable development of peace and prosperity in our region.
He said that the collaboration of DAR and BARMM is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and harnessing the vast potential of the community.
“As we embark towards a better BARMM, let the principle of mutual respect, cooperation, and inclusivity guide us in setting a foundation for a better future built in the pillar of equity, justice, and shared prosperity,” Minister Yacob emphasized.
According to the DAR, Secretary Estrella commits to work closely with the Bangsamoro government to successfully carry out the BARMM’s primary initiatives, which include the distribution of land, the administration of agrarian justice, and the provision of support services
With an aggregated 103,344.58 hectares available for distribution in Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and in Special Geographic Areas, 65,379 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs), 280 ARB organizations, and 110 agrarian reform communities.
Moreover, Chief Minister Ebrahim said, “This endeavor will strengthen the implementation of the Agrarian Reform Laws in the Region since it aligns the 12-point priority agenda, which emphasizes boosting the value chain, ensuring rural development, boosting regional food security, and strengthening agri-fishery production.”
Undersecretary Sangcopan said to The MOU serves as a testament of Sec. Estrella’s dedication to bringing DAR and the people of Mindanao closer together and to improve the lives of farmers and families.