BUTUAN CITY — Agrarian reform goes beyond the distribution of land titles. In early June 2026, a single summit held in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte directed more than PHP1.2 billion into Caraga’s agricultural sector, benefiting over 2,300 agrarian reform beneficiaries. In a region where farming remains a key source of livelihood and employment, the investment represents more than routine government support, it signals a long-term commitment to strengthening rural productivity and economic growth.
A Summit That Delivered Immediate and Long-Term Support
The Agrarian Reform Stakeholders Empowerment and Partnership Summit, conducted on June 1, served as more than a ceremonial event. Led by DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, the gathering resulted in several concrete interventions aimed at supporting farmers in Butuan and Surigao. Two Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs)—the Sto. Niño Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Butuan City and the Filipinas Palm Oil Plantation ARB Multi-Purpose Cooperative—entered into marketing agreements designed to provide members with more stable markets and reduce exposure to fluctuating commodity prices.
Meanwhile, four additional ARBOs representing 403 farmers received 15 units of farm machinery and equipment valued at PHP3.6 million. The equipment is expected to improve farm efficiency, lower operating costs, and increase agricultural productivity across beneficiary communities.
A PHP1.16-Billion Community Takes Root in Surigao del Sur
Beyond the immediate distribution of equipment and support services, the summit also marked the launch of the ROMATA Agrarian Reform Community (ARC) in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. The initiative is set to receive PHP1.16 billion in investments over the next five years and will directly benefit 353 agrarian reform beneficiaries from three barangays and two ARBOs.
Local officials highlighted the positive impact of agrarian reform programs on rural communities. Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante remarked, “Our ARBs evolved, and their lives improved,” while Buenavista Mayor Joselito T. Roble emphasized that agrarian reform should lead to meaningful improvements in people’s quality of life rather than simply providing documentation.
Better Roads Mean Better Business
Infrastructure development also formed part of the support package. DAR formally turned over a PHP50-million farm-to-market road project in Surigao del Norte that will benefit 234 agrarian reform beneficiaries. The project is expected to improve transportation efficiency, reduce post-harvest losses, and strengthen access to markets.
Summarizing the broader objective of these initiatives, DAR Caraga Regional Director Merlita Capinpuyan stated, “Through stronger collaboration, responsive support services, and community empowerment, we can help our farmers achieve greater productivity, improved livelihood opportunities, and a more secure future for their families.”
