DAR Region IX

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𝐃𝐀𝐑 𝐈𝐗 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐋𝐓𝐒𝐏 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩

The Department of Agrarian Reform Region IX (DAR IX) actively participated in the Assessment and Strategic Planning Workshop in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Land Registration Authority (LRA), and Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) for the Land Tenure Security Program (LTSP). This workshop was held on May 5-7, 2026 at Princesa Garden Island, Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

Spearheaded by the DAR Central Office through the Field Operations Office (FOO), the workshop brought together representatives from DAR Central Office, partner agencies, and regions from Mindanao, particularly Regions IX, X, and XI. This marked the second batch of the nationwide program review and coordination workshop. The initiative aimed to assess accomplishments, address operational concerns, and strengthen inter-agency coordination in the implementation of DAR’s land tenure programs and services.

The three-day workshop was facilitated by Atty. Rexie M. Maristela (OIC-Director, BLAD & BLTI, concurrent Director III of DAR Region IV-A), Engr. Manuel A. Nebreja (OIC-Assistant Director, BLAD); and Emmanuel A. Alfiler (OIC-Director IV, Planning Service). They focused on evaluating accomplishments, targets, and issues, as well as discussing Problems, Issues, Needs and Concerns (PINs), and Best Innovative Good Practices (BIGPs) of the regions for Calendar Years 2025 and 2026. Key program areas included Land Acquisition and Distribution (LAD), Government-Owned Lands under Executive Order No. 75, Completion of Documents and Payment of Land Transfer Claims (CDPLTC), Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROM), Inspection, Verification and Approval of Surveys (IVAS), and the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (Project SPLIT).

Throughout the workshop, regional offices presented their respective accomplishments and operational updates to panelists from DARCO, DENR, LBP, and LRA. The event provided a platform for identifying implementation gaps, harmonize processes among agencies, and formulate strategies to improve program delivery on the ground.

A special “Undersecretary’s Hour for Field Operations” led by Undersecretary Atty. Kazel C. Celeste further provided participating regions to raise concerns, clarify policy directions, and align operational targets with DAR’s national priorities.

In her closing message, USec. Celeste emphasized that the workshop served as an important platform to synchronize efforts and strengthen coordination among partner agencies in delivering secure and sustainable land tenure programs for ARBs. “The technical expertise of the DENR, the legal stewardship of the LRA, and the financial and administrative support of the LBP are the gears that move this program forward. [...] Let us work harder and smarter, knowing that every title delivered is a step toward uplifting lives and ensuring the agricultural future of our country,” she stated.

The DAR IX contingent was composed of Regional Director Atty. Ramon E. Madronal, Jr.; OIC-Asst. Regional Director for Operations Engr. Jena C. Salaug; OIC-Asst. Regional Director for Administration Rizzel B. Villanueva; Regional Chief Administrative Officer Ma. Socorro C. Reambonanza; SPLIT Project Coordinator Julita Ragandang and Project Engineer Ronald Y. Gadaingan; Supervising Agrarian Reform Program Officer and Vice Parcelization Coordinator Suzette T. Lota; Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator Amina M. Bidin; Management Information System Coordinator Raphael Ellis Z. Fortich; Survey Coordinator Engr. Kristel Joy Graciano; and Environmental & Social Safeguards Support Staff Lovella E. Osumo.

Through active participation in the workshop, DAR IX reaffirms its commitment to strengthening land tenure security programs and enhancing service delivery for agrarian reform beneficiaries in Zamboanga Peninsula.

𝐃𝐀𝐑 𝐈𝐗 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐂𝐑𝐨𝐌𝐬, 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐌𝐄𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬’ 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

The Department of Agrarian Reform Region IX (DAR IX) successfully conducted a Regionwide Stakeholders’ Engagement and Consultation on May 4, 2026, at the Zamboanga del Norte Cultural and Exhibition Center in Dipolog City.

This event marked another significant milestone in the advancement of agrarian reform in the region, during which Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (CoCRoMs), land titles, and Farm Machinery and Equipment (FMEs) were distributed to thousands of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs) throughout the Zamboanga Peninsula, including the newly integrated province of Sulu. This initiative highlights the government’s ongoing commitment to securing land tenure, enhancing agricultural productivity, and improving the lives of farmer-beneficiaries.

A major highlight of the event was the distribution of the final batch of 3,239 CoCRoMs . This distribution covered a total 11,003.54 hectares across Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay, benefiting 6,832 ARBs. With Sulu now part of Region IX, an additional 147 CoCRoMs covering 3,787 hectares were awarded to 143 ARBs from the province.

These certificates represent the condonation of unpaid land amortizations, including any accrued interests. This effectively freeing beneficiaries from long-standing financial obligations, enabling them to fully enjoy the benefits of land ownership.

In terms of land tenure, DAR IX also distributed a total of 219 land titles, covering 298.95 hectares and benefiting 204 ARBs across the region. Among these, 59 were Regular Titles comprising 57.68 hectares, awarded to 42 ARBs in Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur.

A total of 160 electronic titles (e-Titles) were distributed under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (Project SPLIT). These titles covered an area of 241.27 hectares and benefited 162 ARBs from Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay. The issuance of e-Titles marks the transition from collective to individual ownership, which strengthens land tenure security and allows ARBs to manage and develop their lands more effectively.

In addition to land tenure support, DAR IX has turned over 26 units of farm machinery and equipment (FMEs) amounting to ₱11,010,000.00 to 16 ARBOs, benefitting a total of 4,272 ARBs. These interventions aim to boost farm productivity, reduce labor costs, and promote mechanized farming practices in the region.

The distributed equipment includes solar-powered irrigation pumps and mini four-wheel drive tractors for Zamboanga del Norte; floating tillers (mudboat type), corn shellers with dehuskers, and handheld post hole diggers for Zamboanga del Sur; as well as solar-powered pumps, multi-role power stations, and four-wheel drive tractors for Zamboanga Sibugay. These resources are expected to significantly enhance the operational capacity and income potential of the ARBOs.

The event was attended by key national and local officials, led by Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, who personally oversaw the distribution of CoCRoMs and Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs). He was joined by Undersecretaries Rowena Niña Taduran, Kazel Celeste, Amihilda Sangcopan, and Josef Angelo Martires.

A representative for the agrarian reform beneficiaries, Joseph Vallecer, conveyed gratitude on behalf of his fellow ARBs. Speaking in Bisaya, he expressed deep appreciation for the government’s responsiveness, highlighting how the program enabled him to regain access to the land he tills and secure his family’s livelihood. He also extended heartfelt thanks to the DAR leadership and the national government for prioritizing the welfare of farmers.

In his introduction of the keynote speaker, DAR IX Regional Director Atty. Ramon E. Madroñal, Jr. emphasized that the event reflected the tangible results of strong leadership and clear direction in implementing agrarian reform. He noted that the distribution of condonation certificates, land titles, and support services demonstrated how government programs translate into concrete benefits for farmers and agrarian reform beneficiaries.

Following this, Secretary Estrella reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bringing services closer to the people and uplifting the lives of farmers. Speaking in Bisaya, he underscored the dedication of public servants who continue to work tirelessly, often making personal sacrifices, to ensure that farmers -- who endure both heat and rain to feed the nation -- receive the support they deserve. He emphasized that such efforts are fulfilling, as they lead to meaningful change for those who need it most.

The program included interactive segments, such as trivia and parlor games, creating a celebratory atmosphere and allowing participating ARBs the chance to win prizes, facilitated by USec. Rowena Niña Taduran.

In attendance were DAR IX Assistant Regional Director for Operations (ARDO) Engr. Jena Salaug, Assistant Regional Director for Administration (ARDA) Rizzel Villanueva, and Regional Agrarian Reform Adjudicator (RARAD) Atty. Jessica Agagon, along with all Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officers (MARPOs) from Region IX. Additionally, representatives from partner agencies -- including the Land Bank of the Philippines, Land Registration Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Philippine National Police -- were present. This demonstrates strong inter-agency and multi-sectoral support for agrarian reform initiatives.

Through this large-scale distribution and engagement activity, DAR IX continues to upholds its mandate to deliver social justice and comprehensive support services to farmer-beneficiaries. This effort contributes to inclusive growth and sustainable rural development in Zamboanga Peninsula.

𝐃𝐀𝐑 𝐈𝐗 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐒𝐏𝐋𝐈𝐓 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬

The Department of Agrarian Reform Region IX (DAR IX), through its Regional Project Management Office (RPMO), successfully conducted a Regionwide Assessment and Planning Workshop for the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (Project SPLIT) and Land Tenure Services (LTS) on April 27-28, 2026, at Top Plaza Hotel, Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte.

The two-day event gathered key officials and personnel from both regional and provincial offices to assess the current status of Project SPLIT implementation and strengthen coordination in delivering land tenure services across the region. The workshop provided a platform to evaluate accomplishments, identify operational gaps, and develop strategies to improve the efficiency of parcelization and individual titling of collective landholdings.

In his opening message, Regional Director Atty. Ramon E. Madroñal, Jr. underscored that Project SPLIT is not just about meeting targets; it is about securing the future of agrarian reform beneficiaries. He stated that the assessment should guide efforts in refining strategies, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring the delivery of land titles reflects the agency’s commitment to genuine agrarian justice.

Workshop discussions included updates on LTS accomplishments, survey status, an inventory of LAD balances, the status of claim folders, and provincial catch-up plans. Participants also address issues, concerns, and best practices encountered on the ground to devise responsive and practical solutions.

On the second day, provinces presented accomplishment reports covering field validation, documentation, registration, and distribution, as well as legal and survey updates. Additional sessions focused on case resolutions, financial statuses, and future directions, further aligning the offices toward meeting project targets.

In his closing remarks, Assistant Regional Director for Administration and Finance (ARDA) Rizzel B. Villanueva acknowledged the challenges raised during the workshop and expressed strong confidence in the office’s ability to address them. He encouraged employees to remain focused and proactive, emphasizing that with sustained effort and coordination, the region is well-positioned to resolve outstanding concerns and achieve its targets within the year.

The activity concluded with a renewed commitment among participants to accelerate the implementation of Project SPLIT and ensure the timely issuance of individual land titles to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs), reinforcing DAR’s mission of promoting equitable land distribution and inclusive rural development.

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𝐃𝐀𝐑 𝐑𝐎 𝐈𝐗 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐐𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐭 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈𝐒𝐎 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

The Department of Agrarian Reform Regional Office IX (DAR RO IX), through its Support to Operations Division (STOD), successfully conducted a Training on Internal Quality Audit (ISO 19011:2018) on April 22-23, 2026. The training aimed to enhance the auditing competencies of its personnel and strengthen the agency’s quality management systems.

The event was held at the Barcelona Function Hall of Marcian Garden Hotel in Zamboanga City, where selected regional personnel designated as prospective Internal Quality Auditors (IQAs) gathered. This activity is part of DAR RO IX’s continuing efforts to uphold standards of efficiency, accountability, and continuous improvement in public service delivery.

Aligned with the guidelines of ISO 19011:2018, the training covered key principles of auditing management systems, including audit planning, ex*****on, reporting, and evaluation. Participants were equipped with practical tools and techniques necessary to effectively assess compliance with established procedures and identify opportunities for improvement within the agency’s systems.

In his opening remarks, Assistant Regional Director for Administration (ARDA) Rizzel B. Villanueva, underscored the importance of taking the training seriously and understanding the true purpose of ISO in improving workplace systems. He emphasized that the standards are intended to simplify processes rather than complicate them. “Take to heart what you do today. If we perceive ISO as a burden or something that complicates our work, we miss its true purpose. The essence of ISO is to facilitate smooth and efficient operations, making our work easier,” he stated. He also noted that while the agency had identified several areas for improvement during its recent re-accreditation, these challenges represent opportunities to strengthen routines and enhance overall performance.

The technical sessions were facilitated by resource person Cristina Lazaro, who guided participants through discussions on ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems and ISO 19011 auditing standards. The training included interactive workshops, group exercises, and mock audit simulations, allowing participants to apply their learning in practical scenarios.

Throughout the training, participants engaged in collaborative session activities such as expectation setting, audit simulations, and group presentations, which further strengthened their understanding of audit processes and enhanced their confidence in conducting internal quality audits.

The activity concluded with the presentation of outputs, distribution of certificates and tokens, and a closing program that recognized the participants’ commitment to improving the agency’s quality management systems.

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𝐃𝐀𝐑 𝐈𝐗 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝟏𝟏𝐭𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐀𝐑-𝐃𝐓𝐈-𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐏-𝐃𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐋𝐅𝐄𝐃

The Department of Agrarian Reform Region IX (DAR IX), in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), successfully conducted the 11th Regional Synchronized Planning Workshop and Learning Session under the Village Level Farm-Focused Enterprise Development (VLFED) Program on April 13-15, 2026 in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.

This three-day event, organized by the Regional Program Beneficiaries Development Division (RPBDD) led by Engr. Florinda Depamaylo, aimed to harmonize inter-agency plans and initiatives, ensuring a unified and results-driven approach to advancing enterprise development for Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations (ARBOs). It brought together key representatives from DAR, DTI, DOST, with support from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The work began with a field visit to VLFED-assisted ARBOs, including the Batu Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BAFAMCO) and the Malandi-Patalon Zamboanga City Agrarian Reform Association Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MAPZACARA). Participants had the opportunity to observe on-site operations, including the processing of products such as virgin coconut oil and coco sugar, and to assess the implementation of support services provided to the organizations.

The main workshop featured presentations on agency updates, current initiatives, and directives for CY 2026. Agnes Rojas from DAR Central Office Bureau of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development (BARBD) participated via virtual teleconferencing, highlighting VLFED milestones and funding support while emphasizing the need for synchronized efforts to achieve measurable outcomes for agrarian enterprises.

DTI Regional CARP Coordinator Oliver M. Santos led discussions on enterprise development, which included the proposed ARC Village Wellness Project. He also facilitated a capacity-building session focused on product design, packaging, and labeling, emphasizing the importance of branding and market positioning in improving the competitiveness of ARB products.
Other contributions to the discussions came from representatives of partner agencies, including Mohammad Yassep Maluddin (DTI Zamboanga City Office), Desmarc Malate (DTI Zamboanga del Norte), Darryl Billy Apao (DTI Zamboanga del Sur), Edgardo Milanes (DTI Zamboanga Sibugay), John Ken Esmas (DOST Zamboanga Sibugay), Eusebio Tose (TESDA Zamboanga Sibugay), and Zede Vergara (DOLE).

The workshop served as a platform to review CY 2025 accomplishments from CY 2025, finalize synchronized work and financial plans for CY 2026, and draft indicative plans for CY 2027, all aligned with the agri-enterprise development goals of partner agencies. It also enabled participants to assess the readiness of ARB products for mainstream market entry.
Through this collaborative effort, DAR IX and its partner agencies reaffirm their commitment to strengthening convergence initiatives, enhancing value chain development, and empowering agrarian reform beneficiaries toward building sustainable and competitive rural enterprises.


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