DAR, World Bank boost agriculture security

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the World Bank (WB) convened in General Santos City last week to discuss ensuring land tenure security for Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and the effective implementation of the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (Project SPLIT).

Project SPLIT aims to convert collective Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CCLOAs) into individual land titles, empowering ARBs with stronger property rights, autonomy in farming decisions, access to credit, and improved livelihoods.

Held from 17-19 March 2025, at the Grand Summit Hotel, the event marked the 11th World Bank Implementation Support Mission for the SPLIT Project. Simultaneous consultations took place in Bicol and Eastern Visayas, gathering feedback from ARBs in different regions.

During the three-day consultation, agrarian reform beneficiary organizations from Regions 11 and 12 shared their concerns and experiences, helping shape the project’s implementation. The discussions also included field visits where ARBs showed how land parcelization is affecting their communities.

Sarah Antos, World Bank team leader and senior land administration specialist, emphasized the importance of these consultations. “It’s essential to hear the perspectives of those directly affected. We need to reflect on what’s working and what needs improvement,” she said.

Despite some disagreements, Antos reaffirmed DAR and WB’s shared commitment to strengthening land tenure security for ARBs, with concrete action plans to address the concerns raised.

For many ARBs, securing individual land titles represents a life-changing opportunity. Marilyn Taculoy, an ARB from Alabel, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We thank DAR and the World Bank for their unwavering support to improve our lives.”

The consultation, hosted by DAR’s regional office under Regional Director Mariannie Lauban-Baunto, showcased the strong collaboration between DAR, the World Bank, and agrarian reform communities, ensuring the SPLIT Project continues to bring lasting change to Filipino farmers.