IN Northern Mindanao, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR-10) is doubling down on a message of fairness, insisting that land titles are awarded based strictly on merit and eligibility, not connections.
Regional Director Zoraida Macadindang emphasized that the agency remains committed to a non-discriminatory distribution process. This approach is positioned not just as an agricultural strategy, but as a tool for peace.
A prime example of this policy in action is Minalang Mapandi, widely known as "Kumander Batman." Once a combatant, Mapandi chose a peaceful path and now leads an Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization (ARBO), proving that legitimate access to land can offer a viable alternative to conflict.
To ensure this fairness continues, DAR-10 reiterated the strict criteria for potential beneficiaries: they must be landless, legally qualified, and, crucially, willing to cultivate the land personally.
By the Numbers The agency’s data reflects the scale of this effort. As of Dec. 22, 2025, DAR-10 has distributed more than 321,380 hectares of land through Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOA).
This massive distribution covers five provinces — Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental—benefiting over 188,248 farmers.
Beyond land titles, the government is also tackling the financial shackles that often burden farmers. The total value of Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROMs) in the region has reached P619.5 million (P619,548,712.90), significantly easing the debt load for agrarian reform beneficiaries.
The department looks to continue this momentum with another land distribution activity scheduled for Jan. 29 at the Limketkai Center, where Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III is expected to attend.
