Busuanga: The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has successfully distributed 925 land titles, concluding a 50-year wait for 727 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in Busuanga, Palawan. The ceremony, held at the Busuanga Gymnasium, was a significant milestone for local farmers as it secured their tenurial and property rights.
According to Philippines News Agency, Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III announced that the land titles cover a total of 726.62 hectares of agricultural land. These lands, previously under concession to the Yulo King Ranch for cattle raising as part of a food security program initiated by the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., are now officially in the hands of the farmers. Secretary Estrella expressed regret over the lengthy delay in title distribution and assured that similar delays would not occur under the current administration led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
During the event, Estrella stated, "Under the administration of President Marcos Jr. and under my watch, no ARB will wait for that long anymore. We will fast-track the distribution of titles." He also reassured those still awaiting their titles that they would soon receive them, saying, "To those who haven't received their titles, do not worry. You are next to receive yours."
The distribution event was marked by a festive atmosphere as farmers celebrated the long-awaited ownership of the lands they have cultivated for decades. One beneficiary, Restituto dela Cruz, 59, expressed his gratitude, saying, "I am very grateful to President Marcos Jr. and to DAR Secretary Estrella III for awarding this title. There will be no more worry whatsoever that this farm I am tilling will be taken from my family and me." Fellow beneficiaries Romeo Melad, 64, and Narita Pabero, 69, shared similar sentiments of relief and gratitude.
Secretary Estrella, who personally leads the distribution of land titles, emphasized that this initiative is part of his commitment to bringing government services closer to the people and gaining a better understanding of the challenges faced by ARBs.
