ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA, Philippines — The DAR Land Titles Zamboanga Peninsula initiative gained a major boost as the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) distributed 3,744 land titles to 3,601 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) across Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay.
Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III led the distribution of the land titles, aiming to strengthen land tenure security and provide farmers with legal ownership of the lands they cultivate.
Alongside the land title distribution, DAR also turned over newly completed Farm-to-Market Roads (FMRs) and various Farm Machinery and Equipment (FME) packages to qualified beneficiaries in the region.
The agency said the infrastructure projects and agricultural equipment are intended to improve the transportation of farm products, increase agricultural productivity, and enhance economic opportunities for farming communities.
DAR noted that better road connectivity and access to modern farming equipment are expected to reduce production costs and help farmers bring their products to markets more efficiently.
The event also featured the launch of PelikulAgraryo 2026, a filmmaking competition designed to showcase the success stories of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries and promote youth participation in creative storytelling.
According to DAR, the competition provides a platform for young people to demonstrate their talents and creativity while highlighting the impact of agrarian reform programs on local communities.
Officials said the initiative seeks to strengthen public awareness of agrarian reform efforts and inspire greater appreciation for the contributions of farmers to national development.
Through the combined programs on land ownership security, agricultural modernization, infrastructure development, and cultural recognition, DAR reaffirmed its commitment to delivering comprehensive support to farmers and their families throughout the Zamboanga Peninsula.
The agency emphasized that empowering agrarian reform beneficiaries through land distribution and sustainable livelihood assistance remains a key component of the government’s broader rural development agenda.