THE New Agrarian Emancipation Act will provide a “fresh start” for local farmers and uplift the agricultural sector, Ako Bicol Party-list Rep, Elizaldy Co said.
Co lauded President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for approving the measure, which, he noted, promises to significantly improve the lives of farmers across the country.
“By condoning the debts of our farmers, the New Agrarian Emancipation Act provides them with a fresh start and the opportunity to improve their livelihoods,” said Co, chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations.
“It is a positive move from the government to support and uplift our agricultural sector,” he added. Co supported the landmark law at the lower chamber.
Citing the Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, the lawmaker said that the New Agrarian Emancipation Act will not only liberate farmers from the burden of agrarian debt since it will also provide them with broader support services and credit facilities.
“The Marcos administration has significantly bolstered the resources available to farmers,” Co said. “These resources will enable farmers to enhance the productivity of their farms and improve their quality of life.”
Specifically, the New Agrarian Emancipation Act of 2023 condones the P57.5 billion debt of 610,054 farmers, who cultivate approximately 1 million hectares of land across the country.
Co said the farmers’ debts were accumulated through unpaid amortizations, interest, and surcharges.
Co likewise said that the simultaneous nationwide distribution of approximately 31,831 land titles to 23,699 ARBs that will be led by President Marcos following the signing of the New Agrarian Emancipation Act further underscores the government’s commitment to supporting local farmers.
This move, the lawmaker noted, represents a tangible step toward empowering farmers and ensuring their access to land.
“The distribution of land titles under the New Agrarian Emancipation Act is a clear demonstration of the government’s dedication to agrarian reform and the welfare of our farmers,” he said. ”It is a crucial step towards providing security and empowerment to our agrarian reform beneficiaries.”
As the New Agrarian Emancipation Act comes into effect, Co encouraged farmers and agricultural stakeholders to seize the opportunities it presents.
He also called for continued efforts to ensure a comprehensive and genuinely redistributive agrarian reform program that addresses the challenges faced by farmers and promotes equitable development.
metrosundaily
