The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) announced Friday that thousands of farmers across the Negros Island Region (NIR) marked a major milestone following the distribution of 7,798 land titles, the condonation of P1.79 billion in unpaid land amortization, and the turnover of P73.6 million worth of support packages on 4 December.

For many agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs), the event was more than a government service — it fulfilled a dream decades in the making. After years of tilling the land, 4,788 farmers finally received titles affirming their ownership of 5,524 hectares across Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.

Among them was Bonifacio Pingcas of Sagay, who held up his land title with pride. “The land is under my name now, nobody can take it away from me. And I will pass this land to my children, who will take care of it when the time comes,” Pingcas said.

In a sweeping relief effort, DAR issued 15,000 Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROMs) to 13,822 ARBs, wiping out almost P1.8 billion in debts that had burdened them for years. The condonation gives farmers a clean slate and renewed confidence in their livelihood.

To boost agricultural productivity, DAR also turned over machinery, equipment, and organic fertilizers worth P67.6 million to 71 agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs). The assistance is expected to benefit nearly 4,200 ARBs by lowering production costs, improving efficiency, and expanding income opportunities.

Francisco De Guzman, chairman of the Sitio Flora Agrarian Reform Cooperative, said the machinery would help them move their goods faster. “The tractor will be a great help to us. Hauling our produce will be easier and faster, and we can bring more goods to the market.”

DAR likewise extended P6 million in relief assistance to 5,913 individuals — farmers and DAR personnel — who suffered damage to their homes, crops, and belongings after Typhoons Tino and Uwan.

DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, who led the ceremony, emphasized that government support extends beyond land distribution and equipment provision. He said DAR is coordinating with the Department of Health, the Department of Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to ensure better health services and educational and skills opportunities for farmers and their children.

“We want our farmers and their families to build lives rooted in dignity, opportunity, and long-term stability,” Estrella said.

For the farming communities of Negros Island, the day marks a new chapter — secured land, freedom from debt, and tools that will allow them to strengthen their livelihood, support food security, and contribute to national growth.