Bicolano children celebrate agrarian reform with heartfelt tribute to PBBM

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. was all smiles as grandchildren of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) of the Bicol Region rendered him a heartfelt “Awit ng Pasasalamat” during the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) distribution of land titles and support services on June 7, 2024, symbolizing a new chapter of hope and prosperity for the region’s farming families.

In front of President Marcos Jr., DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, and other national and local officials, the 18 Bicolano young performers took center stage with excitement and innocent voices, singing a song that conveyed gratitude, hope, and unity. The song “Mabalos”, composed and arranged by Giuseppe S. Crescini, spoke of dreams fulfilled and futures brightened by the promise of land ownership.

These children, aged 7 to 12 and hailing from various parts of Camarines Sur, were a highlight of the day’s event, capturing the essence of the agrarian reform program’s impact on families across generations. Among the performers were Angel Mae L. Niño (10) and Joey L. Niño (12), grandchildren of Hermilina M. Magistrado, who received a Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) for 2.1230 hectares of agricultural land in Cambalidio, Libmanan. They were joined by Janela Mae O. Sael (12), grandchild of Edgardo B. Sael, and Jonas O. Abaquita (12) with Fritz Chloe O. Juanico (12), and Nash Frances Lorrain O. Juanico (12), all from Cambalidio, Libmanan.

Representing younger voices were Godfrey Roadiel Javier (8), grandson of Marcelo C. Javier, Jr., and Karl Errol Razado Arejola (7), grandson of Edgar B. Razado, each from Bula. The group also included Princess Agatha L. Delos Santos (7), Jian S. Panagan (7), and Justin Kert R. Salvador (10), further showcasing the diversity and unity among the beneficiaries' families.

“Labis kaming nagagalak na kayo pa mismo ang naghatid sa amin ng titulo. Dahil sa lupang ito, naging maliwanag, matiwasay at matatag ang aming kinabukasan,” grandchildren of ARBs said to President Marcos, Jr. after the performance.

President Marcos Jr., visibly moved, applauded the children’s tribute, and joined them for a selfie. Showcasing his solidarity with the ARBs, the President’s