The Department of Agrarian Reform on Monday said its Provincial Office (DARPO) in Apayao has taken a significant step toward equitable land distribution by addressing long-standing discrepancies in land allocation caused by inaccurate surveys and misidentified Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs).

Two parcels of land in Ripang, covered by Survey Nos. SWO-133203-000345 (AR) and SWO-133203-000364 (AR), were initially awarded to ARBs under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. However, a thorough review revealed that the registered ARBs were not the actual land occupants due to errors in the original surveys.

To address the issue, a resurvey was conducted in 2025, providing accurate land boundaries and confirming the real status of land occupation. With the new data, DARPO Apayao initiated Agrarian Legal Implementation proceedings to formally resolve the inconsistencies.

The Legal Division also held consultations with affected farmers to explain the disqualification of the original ARBs and the subsequent cancellation of their Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs). Affidavits and certifications from the Barangay Agrarian Reform Committee (BARC) confirmed that the land had been mistakenly awarded.

In response, the original ARBs — who continue to occupy the land — requested the cancellation of their titles due to technical errors.

With strong support from BARC chairman Reynaldo Moyaen and barangay captain Marino Costales, DAR ensured transparent and inclusive discussions with stakeholders. The corrected survey and legal actions now pave the way for a more just and accurate land distribution process in Apayao.

This effort highlights DAR’s commitment to upholding fairness and accuracy in agrarian reform, ensuring that rightful land occupants receive the recognition and support they deserve.