DAR-Caraga Sets Up Condonation Response Desks for Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries

Caraga, Philippines – The Department of Agrarian Reform in the Caraga Region (DAR-13) has launched Condonation Response Desks (CORDs) across the region to facilitate the efficient implementation of Republic Act (RA) 11953, also known as the New Agrarian Emancipation Act. This initiative is aimed at streamlining processes and providing assistance to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs).

According to Philippines News Agency, DAR-13 information officer, these CORDs will act as one-stop-shops for ARBs to inquire and address their concerns regarding the implementation of RA 11953. The desks will specifically assist in the condonation of existing loans and amortization from the Land Bank of the Philippines, as per the act’s provisions. Lafuente also mentioned that a regionwide orientation on the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 11953 is planned, following the preparation activities. CORDs have been strategically established in DAR provincial offices across Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, and Surigao del Norte, with an additional center at the DAR Regional Office in Caraga and coverage for Dinagat Islands by the Surigao del Norte CORD.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed RA 11953 on July 7, 2023, aiming to condone an estimated PHP57.55-billion worth of amortizations for around 610,054 ARBs nationwide. In Caraga alone, the act is expected to benefit about 10,945 ARBs, covering more than PHP1 billion worth of amortization.