COURTESY: Local Government Unit of Naawan
The recent groundbreaking ceremony for the Institute for the Sustainable Transformation of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries marks a significant milestone for farmers in Northern Mindanao. On July 10, 2025, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Naawan and various line agencies, initiated the development of a ₱500 million climate-resilient farm learning center. This center will stand proudly on a two-hectare lot generously donated by the LGU Naawan.
The primary goal of this state-of-the-art learning center is to empower agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and smallholder farmers. Through comprehensive training and capacity-building programs, this initiative will equip farmers with sustainable farming practices. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of environmental resilience in agriculture, ensuring that the farming community can adapt to the challenges posed by climate change. The center is part of the Sustainable and Inclusive Livelihoods through Partnerships and Innovation for Transformation (SPLIT) Project under the Capacity Building and Technical Assistance (CBTA) component of DAR.
A Collaborative Effort for Rural Transformation
The groundbreaking ceremony garnered significant attention, as it was attended by notable figures, including DAR Undersecretaries Atty. Kazel Celeste, Josef Angelo Martires, and Amihilda Sangcopan. Additionally, Governor Juliet Uy, along with representatives from the local government and educational institutions, showcased the widespread support for this transformative initiative. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed, solidifying the collaboration among various stakeholders dedicated to uplifting the agricultural sector.
In a further demonstration of commitment to farmers, DAR also handed over ₱7.26 million worth of farm machinery and inputs to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) from Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Norte, and Camiguin. This tangible support not only enhances the farming capabilities of local communities but also reinforces the shared vision of DAR and LGU Naawan to uplift rural livelihoods. As this groundbreaking initiative unfolds, it promises to cultivate a new era of agricultural innovation and sustainability, setting a benchmark for future projects aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape in the region.
