The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) on Thursday said that more than 300 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in Caramoan are now debt-free, and were distributed with 542 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (CoCRoM), wiping out P18.3 million in land amortization debt covering 1,012 hectares of farmland.

This landmark move falls under the New Agrarian Emancipation Act (Republic Act 11953), signed into law by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on 7 July 2023, according to DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, who said the Act aims “to free ARBs from the burden of unpaid loans, amortizations, and interest for lands awarded under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).”

“This initiative shows our firm commitment to helping ARBs succeed,” said Provincial Agrarian Reform program officer Renato C. Bequillo. By lifting this financial burden, we’re giving farmers the chance to focus on increasing productivity and improving their quality of life,” Estrella explained. 

This recent round of debt relief follows a similar effort last December, where 1,260 certificates were issued, eliminating P16.57 million in debt across 1,600 hectares of land. 

Municipal Agrarian Reform program officer Nestor Corona reminded ARBs of their continuing role in nation-building. “Although their land debts have been condoned, farmers must still pay their taxes to the local government.” 

The impact of the debt relief was deeply felt by the ARBs. “This is a huge help for underprivileged farmers like us,” said 72-year-old Gemenia L. Delloro of Barangay Daraga. “Now we can focus on our farms instead of worrying about how to pay our loans.” 

Maria Jane A. Velasco, who inherited her late mother’s land obligations, also expressed her gratitude. “Thank you, President Marcos and Secretary Estrella, for helping us carry on our family’s legacy without debt.” 

According to Chief Agrarian Reform program officer for Operations Adonis H. Dolanas, the CoCRoM will allow the Registry of Deeds to officially remove liens previously held by the Land Bank of the Philippines, enabling ARBs to finally secure clean titles to their land. 

Through this program, DAR continues to deliver on its promise of a more sustainable, empowered and debt-free future for the ARBs.