Corn farmers in Misamis Occidental are set to boost their productivity and income following the Department of Agrarian Reform’s (DAR) turnover of P882,000 worth of farm machinery and equipment (FME) to three agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs).

The support, provided under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project – Sustainable Livelihood Support (CRFPSP-SLS), aims to help farmers adopt modern, efficient, and climate-smart agricultural practices. More than 100 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) are expected to benefit from the newly distributed machinery, which includes corn mills and knapsack sprayers.

The recipients are Balintonga CARPBA, Inc. in Aloran; Señor San Roque CARPBA, Inc. in Panaon; and Tipan Farmers Beneficiaries Association, Inc. in Sinacaban.

DAR–Misamis Occidental Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Rolando M. Libetario Jr. said the turnover highlights the agency’s commitment to empowering farmers through technology and innovation.

“By providing machinery tailored to their production needs, we help our farmers save time, reduce costs, and achieve better-quality yields, even amid adverse weather or road disruptions,” Libetario said.

Panaon Mayor Francisco Paylaga Jr. thanked DAR for its continued partnership with local governments in strengthening agricultural communities.

“When government agencies like DAR work hand in hand with us, our farmers become more capable, more confident, and more hopeful. We are deeply grateful for DAR’s commitment to helping us build a stronger and more productive agricultural community here in Panaon,” Mayor Paylaga said.

Leaders of the recipient organizations likewise expressed appreciation for the project’s immediate benefits.

“This is a big help for us farmers. We are truly grateful for the support extended to us and our members. Thank you very much to DAR,” Señor San Roque CARPBA President Peter L. Eltagon said.

Each turnover was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement and Trust Agreement between DAR–Misamis Occidental and the ARBOs, outlining responsibilities for the proper use and maintenance of the machinery.

Through initiatives like this, DAR continues to empower agrarian reform beneficiaries nationwide — enhancing productivity, strengthening rural enterprises, and promoting inclusive agricultural growth.