PARC approves P19-B fund to advance development in the countryside
DAR OSEC Boardroom, Diliman, QC – The Presidential Agrarian Reform Council (PARC) has approved a PhP 19-billion funding request from the Agrarian Reform Fund to support several crucial projects to be implemented by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in the countryside to advance rural development.
The funding approval was the key highlight of the 40th PARC meeting, presided over by DAR Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III, PARC Vice-Chairperson, and Atty. Kazel C. Celeste, Council Secretary, on Friday, October 25, 2024, together with other PARC members to discuss vital initiatives for agrarian reform and rural development.
One of the projects to be implemented under the approved fund is the Pang-Agraryong Tulay para sa Bagong Bayanihan ng mga Magsasaka (Project PBBM), which aims to construct modular steel bridges to enhance mobility, boost productivity, and increase the income of over 350,000 households.
A portion of the approved funds would also be directed toward developing farm-to-market roads, and farm machinery and equipment.
Estrella said these investments are critical for improving access to healthcare, education, and other essential services, especially in remote areas where such services have traditionally been hard to reach.
During the meeting, funding for Land Compensation Cases (LOC) was also discussed to ensure timely settlements for landowners to prevent high interest rates due to delayed payments.
The council also emphasized the importance of a scholarship program for the children of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs), to align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision outlined in his State of the Nation Address (SONA).
“These projects reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to empowering farmers and enhancing the livelihoods of rural households, paving the way for a more sustainable and productive agrarian sector,” Estrella said.