From the Farm to Your Table: DAR-Region 02 and Lighthouse Coop Light the Way for Farmers' Success!

Tuguegarao City, Cagayan– Something exciting just sprouted in Region 02!  The Department of Agrarian Reform Regional Office II (DAR-RO2) and the ever-dynamic Lighthouse Cooperative just inked a partnership that’s bound to brighten the future of agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations (ARBOs) across the region — and yes, your dining table might just get tastier, too.

In a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed with cheerful energy and shared optimism, both parties sealed their commitment to bring farm-fresh, high-quality products of ARBOs straight to wider markets, minus the middlemen, minus the stress!

More than Paper, It’s a Promise. This isn’t your typical ceremonial signing with stiff handshakes. At the heart of this agreement is a shared mission: empowering farmers, promoting local produce, and giving every Filipino a taste of what Region 02 proudly produces, processed food, coffee, and other products, such as snacks and drinks.

DAR-RO2 Regional Director Primo C. Lara, represented by OIC-Assistant Regional Director Estrelita V. Go, mentioned that the partnership is significantly beneficial, as it brings the ARBOs’ hard work out of the fields and into the spotlight. Together with Lighthouse Cooperative, represented by its General Manager, Arturo Tabbu, it will highlight the hope, dignity, and real stories behind every product.

Lighthouse: More Than a Coop, It’s a Beacon. The Lighthouse Cooperative, based in Tuguegarao City, is no stranger to innovation and community support. With its strong retail presence, digital platforms, and loyal customer base, it’s the perfect channel to showcase ARBO products. Imagine browsing your local Lighthouse store and seeing neatly packaged native goodies proudly tagged with the name of the ARBO on their labels, now on retail with a purpose.

With this agreement, expect to see more colorful product displays and the mainstreaming of ARBO products in the market. Additionally, every product purchased is a vote of support for sustainable rural development. This is the kind of agrarian reform that tastes good, feels right, and builds futures.

The next time you visit a Lighthouse Cooperative store, look for products bearing the special ARBO seal. You won’t just be shopping - you’ll be sowing seeds of change. From Region 02 with love, let’s grow together! 🌱💚

The Mauanan Baluncanag Gaddangao Farmers Irrigators Credit Cooperative (MBGFICC) as a thriving agrarian reform cooperative.

The Mauanan Baluncanag Gaddangao Farmers Irrigators Credit Cooperative (MBGFICC) is a thriving agrarian reform cooperative located in Purok 1, Baluncanag, Rizal, Cagayan, Philippines. Established in the mountainous region northwest of Tuguegarao City, MBGFICC has become a model of grassroots resilience and agricultural innovation.

Origins and Development

MBGFICC traces its roots to the 1980s when local rice farmers from the barangays of Mauanan, Baluncanag, and Gaddangao united to create the MABAGA Communal Irrigation System. This initiative aimed to ensure equitable water distribution for farming activities. In 2012, the group formalized as the MBG Farmers Irrigators Association and later registered with the Cooperative Development Authority in 2018 as MBGFICC. At the time of registration, the cooperative had 36 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) and assets amounting to ₱36,000.

Membership and Services

Today, MBGFICC boasts 225 members, primarily ARBs engaged in rice and corn cultivation. The cooperative offers a range of services, including production loans, discounted farm machinery services, organic fertilizer production through vermicomposting, and the sale of farm inputs at competitive rates. Additionally, MBGFICC manages irrigation systems to ensure sustainable water distribution.

Government Support and Achievements

MBGFICC has received substantial support from various government agencies. In 2015, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) provided ₱31 million under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Program for Small Water Impounding Systems. The cooperative also benefited from the Sustainable Livelihood Enterprise Program, receiving ₱250,000 in additional capital for small lending in the form of farm inputs. 

Despite challenges such as typhoons and the COVID-19 pandemic, MBGFICC demonstrated resilience by adapting its loan-giving approach and improving financial capacity through seminars and training provided by DAR. This adaptability led to a positive credit standing with the Land Bank of the Philippines, resulting in the approval of short-term loans and the acquisition of farm machinery, including a four-wheel-drive tractor and a rice combine harvester under the DA-PhilMech program. 

The Mauanan Baluncanag Gaddangao Farmers Irrigators Credit Cooperative (MBGFICC) in Rizal, Cagayan, has also been recognized as a Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) under the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in partnership with the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI). In 2022, the cooperative expanded its facilities by acquiring an additional 600 square meters of land specifically intended for the Farm Business School, aligning with its role as a beneficiary of the Agrarian Learning Site for Agriculture program.

As an LSA, MBGFICC serves as a model for sustainable farming practices, offering hands-on training and knowledge sharing to fellow farmers and community members. The cooperative's initiatives include organic fertilizer production through vermicomposting, efficient irrigation management, and the utilization of modern farm machinery. These efforts contribute to the empowerment of local farmers and the promotion of innovative agricultural techniques in the region.

Community Impact and Vision

MBGFICC has significantly contributed to the local economy by creating employment opportunities and supporting members in achieving financial stability. The cooperative's core values—Makers of dreams, Benevolence, God's loving members, Focus on one dream, Inspiring attitudes, Commitment to uplift lives, and Cooperation—guide its mission to uplift people's lives through accessible financial services, encapsulated in its motto, "No Farmers Left Behind."

MBG Farmers Irrigators Cooperative: From Agrarian Reform Beneficiary to Accredited Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA)

CAGAYAN VALLEY, PHILIPPINES — In a remarkable journey from tilling the land to transforming it into a center of learning, the MBG Farmers Irrigators Cooperative, an agrarian reform beneficiary organization (ARBO) in Region II, has earned its distinction as an accredited Learning Site for Agriculture (LSA) under the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI).

From Land to Learning

Formed by a group of dedicated farmer-beneficiaries under the government’s Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), MBG Farmers Irrigators Cooperative has long been a vital force in the rural economy of its community. With strong roots in rice farming and irrigation management, the cooperative was originally organized to empower farmers through land ownership and collective productivity.

Today, it stands as more than just a farmers’ cooperative—it is a beacon of innovation and shared knowledge, recognized officially as an LSA, where it hosts learning sessions, field demonstrations, and technical trainings for farmers, youth, agricultural extension workers, and other stakeholders in the agri-fishery sector.

Building Capacity Through Agriculture

The LSA program, spearheaded by the DA-ATI, aims to recognize and support farmer-led farms that showcase effective, sustainable, and innovative farming practices. The MBG cooperative fits this mold perfectly. Its members have adopted diversified and climate-resilient farming systems that include:

• Palay production using water-efficient irrigation systems

• Integrated rice-fish farming

• Vermicomposting and organic fertilizer production

• Use of farm machinery for postharvest processing

As an LSA, MBG now serves as a hands-on learning venue where trainees can engage directly with actual farming processes—from land preparation and crop production to marketing and cooperative management.

Agrarian Reform in Action

The MBG Farmers Irrigators Cooperative’s recognition as an LSA also underscores the success of the Department of Agrarian Reform’s support services, particularly in ARBO development and sustainability. With the backing of DAR and its partnership with DA-ATI, cooperatives like MBG are not only increasing farm productivity but also fostering a new generation of farmer-leaders and agri-entrepreneurs.

Empowering Rural Communities

For members of the cooperative and the broader community, the impact has been transformative. Local farmers now have access to technical training without the need to travel far, while young people are being drawn back to agriculture through MBG’s inclusive, community-based learning approach.

“Our farm is not just a source of livelihood—it is a classroom, a laboratory, and a place of hope,” says [Cooperative Chairperson/Manager], highlighting the importance of farmer-led learning in rural development.

The Road Ahead

As MBG Farmers Irrigators Cooperative continues to grow in its dual role as a productive ARBO and a Learning Site for Agriculture, it envisions further innovation, partnerships, and youth engagement. Plans are underway to expand its demonstration areas, host more specialized trainings, and serve as a model for other ARBOs aspiring to become LSAs.

Its success story is a testament to what can happen when agrarian reform, cooperative empowerment, and agricultural education converge, building not only better farms but stronger, self-sustaining communities.

CLOA Titles: Once a CLOA, always a CLOA.

“Once a CLOA, always a CLOA” under RA 9700: What Does It Really Mean? 🧑‍🌾

Imagine this: You’re a farmer who just received land from the government through the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). You hold in your hands the golden ticket of agrarian reform — the Certificate of Land Ownership Award, better known as the CLOA. 🎫🏡

But wait! This isn’t just any land title. It’s special. It’s a badge of honor. It says, “You earned this land through agrarian justice!”

Now here comes the golden rule:

🗣️ “Once a CLOA, Always a CLOA!”

That means:

• You can’t just sell it to the highest bidder 💰🚫
• You can’t turn it into a mall or resort without proper permission 🏢🙅‍♂️
• Even after 10 years, if you transfer it, it must go to another farmer or the government, not just anyone with deep pockets! 👩‍🌾➡️👨‍🌾

The land must stay with farmers, for farming, and for the future of food security and rural development. 🌾🥕🍚

It’s like a “forever” commitment. Not to a person, but to the mission of agrarian reform. ❤️

So whether it’s Day 1 or Year 50, if your land was awarded under CLOA, it stays within the CARP system. It’s not a stepping stone to land speculation — it’s a lifeline for generations of farmers to thrive. 🌱👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

💬 In short:

👉 You don’t just “own” the land — you’re entrusted with it.

👉 So wear that CLOA like a crown, farmer-king or queen! 👑

👉 Because “Once a CLOA, always a CLOA” — and that’s the law! ⚖️🌾

Farm Machinery and Equipment Turned Over by DAR-Cagayan to Five ARBOs

TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN — In response to the growing challenges brought by climate change in the agricultural sector, the Department of Agrarian Reform Provincial Office (DARPO) Cagayan has distributed approximately ₱1.2 million worth of farm machinery and equipment to five Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries’ Organizations (ARBOs) across the province.

The official turnover ceremony was held on June 23, 2025 at the DARPO Cagayan Compound in Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City. The event was led by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) II Val Cristobal, PARPO I Glenn A. Follante, and OIC-CARPO for Program Beneficiaries Development Division Christian Sales, together with other DARPO officials and personnel. Representatives and members of the recipient ARBOs also participated in the ceremony.

The five recipient ARBOs are:

• Lizardo Agrarian Reform Cooperative of Lucban, Abulug

• MSRT Culung Credit Cooperative of Culung, Tuao

• Dafunganay Agrarian Reform Cooperative of Dafunganay, Amulung

• Paddaya Farmers Agrarian Reform Cooperative of Paddaya, Aparri

• Logac Farmers Agriculture Cooperative of Logac, Lallo

A total of approximately 260 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) are expected to directly benefit from the distributed machinery and tools.

The agricultural equipment turned over includes:

• Four hand tractors with trailers

• One floating tiller

• One compact tiller rotavator

• Seven brush cutters with rice harvester attachments

• Eleven knapsack sprayers

• Thirteen pressure washers

• One rice transplanter

• Seven water pumps

In their messages, the DAR officials emphasized that the farm machinery granted to the cooperatives represents the fulfillment of a long-time dream of many ARBs. They encouraged the ARBOs to treat the equipment as their own—to care for, maintain, and maximize their use so that more members can benefit over a longer period.

This initiative forms part of the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support (CRFPS) Program of DAR, which aims to strengthen the capacity of agrarian reform communities to adapt to climate change by introducing innovative and efficient agricultural solutions.

Through this program, DAR-Cagayan hopes to reduce production costs, increase yields, and boost income among ARBs—paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable farming future in the province.

VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WpMUYA97Js

PHOTOS: https://www.facebook.com/darcagayanIO/posts/pfbid0uBazEkMfbrerYdgmhQiiQdZi9Lqdqq4ZSAtBxZ4SCoTDH2Pues9BdXFGzvEikvKol

Court Orders Government to Pay ₱28.48 Billion to Hacienda Luisita

In a landmark ruling, the Court of Appeals (CA) has mandated the Philippine government to compensate Hacienda Luisita Inc. (HLI) with ₱28.48 billion for 4,500 hectares of land redistributed under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). This decision overturns a previous valuation of ₱304 million by the Tarlac Regional Trial Court, which the CA deemed insufficient and not in line with Section 17 of the CARP law, emphasizing the need for "real, substantial, full, ample, just and fair" compensation.

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Land Bank of thePhilippines (LBP) were directed to pay the amount as of April 30, 2025, with interest accruing until full payment is made. However, LBP has clarified its non-liability, stating it was removed as a party to the case in 2024 and serves solely as a custodian of public funds.

The DAR has filed a motion for reconsideration, arguing that the CA's valuation did not adequately consider the factors outlined in the CARP law. If denied, the department may elevate the case to the Supreme Court.

This ruling is the latest development in the protracted legal battle over Hacienda Luisita, a sugar estate owned by the Cojuangco family. The Supreme Court had previously ordered the distribution of the land to farmer-beneficiaries in 2012, with compensation to be based on the 1989 land valuation.

As the case continues, it remains a focal point in discussions about land reform and equitable compensation in the Philippines.

• The case revolves around the just compensation owed to HLI for lands distributed to farmers under CARP. 

• The Previous Ruling:

  The Tarlac City Regional Trial Court (acting as a Special Agrarian Court) previously affirmed a valuation of P304 million plus interest, set by Landbank and adopted by DAR. 

• The CA's Decision:

  The CA ruled that this valuation was insufficient and ordered a higher payment based on valuation guidelines outlined in Republic Act 6657, taking into account factors like actual production data and delayed payment. 

• Landbank's Position:

  While Landbank acknowledges the CA's decision, it emphasizes that the ruling is not yet final and that it will comply with any final court directives. 

• DAR's Role:

  DAR has already filed a motion for reconsideration and is awaiting a resolution. If the motion is denied, DAR may elevate the case to the Supreme Court. 

• Significance:

  This decision is significant because it addresses the long-standing issue of land distribution at Hacienda Luisita and the fair compensation owed to the landowner. It also highlights the complexities involved in determining just compensation in agrarian reform cases. 

Sunrise Multipurpose Cooperative: Cultivating Community Prosperity in Gattaran, Cagayan though DAR's VLFED project

In the verdant landscapes of Gattaran, Cagayan, the Sunrise Multipurpose Cooperative (SMPC), an agrarian reform beneficiary organization (ARBO), stands as a beacon of community-driven development and agricultural innovation. Established in Cappisayan Sur, SMPC has been instrumental in transforming the lives of local farmers through sustainable practices and enterprise development.

Empowering Farmers through the VLFED Program

The Department of Agrarian Reform's (DAR) Village-Level Farm-Focused Enterprise Development (VLFED) program has been pivotal in SMPC's journey. This initiative aims to bolster rural enterprises by providing essential support in processing, marketing, and capacity building. Through VLFED, SMPC has enhanced its production capabilities, ensuring that local farmers can process and market their products effectively, thereby increasing their income and community resilience. 

The DAR-VLFED project transformed the Sunrise Multipurpose Cooperative from a small farm-based group into a fully operational, FDA-registered rural enterprise. By leveraging local produce, boosting processing capacity, and opening new markets, VLFED empowered SMPC to uplift the lives of its agrarian reform beneficiaries while stimulating inclusive rural development in Gattaran. With funding and technical support from VLFED, SMPC was able to:

• Upgrade its processing facility for Bugnay wine and fruit preserves.

• Acquire food-grade equipment such as fermenters, bottling tools, pasteurizers, and labeling machines, enabling them to comply with FDA standards.

• Improve product quality, shelf-life, and packaging appeal, leading to better consumer trust and competitiveness.

Signature Product: Bugnay Wine

One of SMPC's standout products is its Bugnay wine, crafted from the indigenous wild berries abundant in the region. This fruit wine not only offers a unique taste but also boasts health benefits, being rich in antioxidants and essential minerals. The production of Bugnay wine has provided an alternative income source for agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs), showcasing the potential of value-added agricultural products. 

Community Engagement and Support

Beyond economic endeavors, SMPC has demonstrated a strong commitment to community welfare. During challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the cooperative actively participated in relief efforts, distributing food packs and meals to affected families and frontliners. This spirit of bayanihan underscores SMPC's role as not just an economic entity but a cornerstone of community solidarity.

Collaborative Growth and Future Prospects

SMPC's integration into the Cagayan Cooperative Union, comprising 23 agrarian reform beneficiary organizations, exemplifies its collaborative approach to regional development. By sharing resources and best practices, these cooperatives aim to amplify their impact, fostering a more robust and interconnected agricultural sector in Cagayan. 

As SMPC continues to harness programs like VLFED and engage in community-centric initiatives, it sets a precedent for how cooperatives can drive sustainable development, blending economic growth with social responsibility.

CSU-Carig Campus and ISU-San Mateo Campus bag major awards in DAR regional PelikulAgraryo 2025.

Tuguegarao City, Cagayan Valley – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Region 02 has launched PelikulAgraryo 2025, a regional short film competition aimed at showcasing the transformative journeys of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and their organizations through student-led storytelling.

With the theme “Pag-ani sa mga Pangarap: Mga Kuwento ng Pag-asa at Tagumpay sa Agraryo” (Harvest of Dreams: Stories of Hope and Success in Agrarian Reform), the initiative invites tertiary-level students enrolled in communication and media-related courses across Region 02 to produce 10–15 minute films that highlight the real-life experiences of ARBs and agrarian reform beneficiary organizations (ARBOs). 

DAR Regional Director Primo C. Lara emphasized that the festival serves as a platform to bridge generational divides, making agrarian reform issues relatable and emotionally resonant, especially for the youth. 

The competition features two categories: the ARB Category, focusing on individual beneficiaries, and the ARBO Category, highlighting the achievements of organizations involved in DAR programs. Regional winners from each category will receive ₱30,000 and will advance to the national finals, where they stand a chance to win ₱60,000. Additionally, eight special awards with monetary prizes will be conferred at the regional level. 

A total of nine (9) entries were accepted from the students of state colleges and universities within Region 02 for the contest. Regional judging took place on June 11, with the awarding ceremony held on June 28. The top films will proceed to the national finals, where they will compete under the same theme. 

This initiative is part of DAR's broader effort to engage the youth in agrarian reform, encouraging them to become storytellers and advocates for rural development. Through PelikulAgraryo 2025, DAR aims to humanize land reform policies and inspire a new generation to appreciate and participate in the ongoing transformation of the agricultural sector.

Winners (Regional Level):

Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organization (ARBO) category: 

1st Place: Cagayan State University - Carig Campus

2nd Place: Cagayan State University - Carig Campus

3rd Place: Quirino State University - Diffun Campus

Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) Category: 

1st Place: Isabela State University - San Mateo Campus

2nd Place: Cagayan State University - Carig Campus

3rd Place: Cagayan State University - Carig Campus

Entries for the ARBO category

Entries for the ARB category

The short film Dalawamput Dalawang Krisantemo by Cagayan State University-Carig Campus won the regional Best Film under the ARBO category.

The short film BUNGA by Isabela State University-San Mateo Campus won the Best Film under the ARB category. 

Regional Winners under the ARBO category. 

Regional winners under the ARB category. 

DAR Turns Over P15-Million Farm-to-Market Road to ARBs in Sitio Dammang, Pamplona, Cagayan

Sitio Dammang, Barangay Bagu, Pamplona, Cagayan, June 17, 2025 - In a milestone event for rural development in Cagayan, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) formally turned over a newly completed 1.1-kilometer concrete farm-to-market road (FMR) to 261 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in Sitio Dammang, Barangay Bagu.

The road project, which cost ₱15 million, was funded under the Agrarian Reform Fund (ARF), the government’s dedicated resource for supporting infrastructure and other development needs of agrarian reform communities. The turnover ceremony was witnessed by DAR officials, local government unit (LGU) representatives headed by Pamplona Mayor Digna Puzon-Antonio and members of the Santa Cruz Multi-Purpose Cooperative, the lead ARB organization of the CURBASTA Agrarian Reform Community (ARC), which includes the barangays of Curva, Bagu, Santa Maria, and surrounding areas.

Regional Director of DAR-Cagayan Valley, Primo C. Lara, emphasized the significance of the infrastructure in his message: “This road is more than just concrete and gravel — it is a symbol of connectivity, opportunity, and progress. It empowers our farmers by bringing their produce closer to markets, reducing transportation costs, and improving their income potential.”

The FMR, which links the agricultural fields of Sitio Dammang to the main barangay roads and nearby trading posts, is expected to boost the mobility of agricultural goods such as rice, corn, root crops, and high-value vegetables. Before its construction, ARBs in the area endured long and difficult trips over muddy and impassable trails, especially during the rainy season.

“For many years, it was a struggle to transport our harvests. Sometimes we would lose part of our crops because we couldn’t deliver on time,” said a farmer-member of the Santa Cruz MPC. “Now, we can reach the market faster, and that means better prices and fewer losses.”

The road project is one of the major interventions under DAR’s Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development and Sustainability Program (ARBDSP), which seeks to sustain land reform gains through infrastructure, livelihood, and institutional support.

CURBASTA Agrarian Reform Community: Nestled in the upland barangays of Cagayan province, CURBASTA ARC is a vibrant and growing cluster of agrarian reform areas composed of the barangays Curva, Bagu, and Santa Maria, hence the name “CURBASTA.” Established as a consolidated agrarian reform community in the mid-2000s, continues to thrive with the Santa Cruz MPC at the helm of collective efforts to strengthen agri-enterprise and cooperative operations. With the completion of the FMR, the community is optimistic that young people will also be encouraged to stay and engage in farming.

Formed under the Department of Agrarian Reform's community-based rural development approach, CURBASTA ARC brings together agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) who were awarded lands under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and organized into cooperatives and farmers’ associations.

At the heart of CURBASTA’s development is the Santa Cruz Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC),  the lead ARB organization that has played a crucial role in uniting farmers and spearheading livelihood activities. Over the years, the community has evolved from subsistence farming to more market-oriented agriculture, producing rice, corn, root crops, bananas, and native delicacies. With support from DAR and partner agencies, CURBASTA ARC has benefited from infrastructure projects, farm inputs, capacity building, and livelihood support. 

The recent completion of the 1.1-kilometer concrete farm-to-market road in Sitio Dammang marks another step forward in CURBASTA’s continuing journey toward inclusive rural development and agricultural sustainability. Today, the community stands as a testament to the impact of collective action, government support, and grassroots leadership.

DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Val M. Cristobal reiterated DAR’s commitment to supporting rural communities beyond land distribution. “Infrastructure like this farm-to-market road is critical to making agrarian reform truly transformative. We will continue to work with our ARBOs to ensure inclusive and sustainable rural development.”

The project forms part of the government’s strategy to climate-proof and economically empower agrarian communities, aligning with the broader goals of poverty reduction and agricultural modernization in Region 2.

As the sun set on Sitio Dammang that day, the newly paved road gleamed with promise, not just of faster travel, but of a brighter, more hopeful future for the farmers who till the land.

Photos: DARPO Cagayan-Batanes

Exemptions from DAR Clearance for transfer of agricultural lands

In the Philippines, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Clearance is generally required before transferring ownership of agricultural lands to ensure that such transfers comply with agrarian reform laws. However, there are specific exemptions from the requirement to secure DAR Clearance. These exemptions are outlined in various laws, especially in DAR Administrative Orders (AOs) and Republic Act No. 6657, as amended.

Common Exemptions from DAR Clearance Requirement for Land Transfers:

1. Land not classified as agricultural

   * Lands already classified as residential, commercial, industrial, or other non-agricultural uses before June 15, 1988 (effectivity of RA 6657).

  * Lands reclassified by local government units (LGUs) before June 15, 1988, as non-agricultural, supported by proper documentation.

2. Retention Area of Landowners

   * Lands retained by landowners under the retention rights provided in agrarian laws, especially if not tenanted or not subject to CARP coverage.

3. Transfer through Succession

   *Transfers of land ownership via hereditary succession (e.g., inheritance) do not require DAR clearance.

4. Landholding below CARP coverage limit

   * Agricultural lands with a total area of five (5) hectares or less owned by a person not already owning other agricultural lands may be exempt if not under CARP coverage.

5. Exempt under DAR AO No. 6, Series of 1994 (as amended)

   Lands that were exempted or excluded from CARP coverage due to being:

     * Government reservations

     * Forest lands

     * Pasture lands

     * Watershed areas

     * Mineral lands

     * National parks

6. Land acquired before CARP and tenanted land already covered by Emancipation Patents (EPs) or Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs). 

* Requires an Order approving the transfer of EP/CLOA pursuant to DAR A.O. No. 08, Series of 1995. 

7. Transfer to government agencies or local government units for public use, e.g., for roads, school sites, government housing, etc.

8. Conveyance involving corporate restructuring

* Internal transfer of ownership within the same corporate group without change in beneficial ownership, subject to proper documentation and DAR confirmation.

Important Notes:

* Even if exempt, it is often advisable to apply for a Certificate of Exemption or a Certification from DAR to avoid issues at the Register of Deeds (ROD).

* If the land is covered by CARP, transfers may be restricted and require DAR clearance regardless of the buyer or purpose.

* Always check the latest DAR Administrative Orders and consult the Municipal or Provincial DAR Office for the most accurate and case-specific guidance.

Legal bases and key issuances for the exemptions from securing DAR Clearance for the transfer of agricultural land:

1. Republic Act No. 6657, as amended (Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law)

*Section 3(c) – Defines agricultural land.

*Section 4 – Lists lands covered under CARP, which implies that non-agricultural lands are not subject to agrarian reform requirements.

*Section 6 – Grants landowners the right to retain 5 hectares, exempting these lands from redistribution.

*Section 6 (second paragraph) – Landowners may transfer retention areas to heirs without clearance.

2. DAR Administrative Order (AO) No. 1, Series of 1989

*Subject: Rules and Procedures Governing the Acquisition and Distribution of Private Agricultural Lands

*Provides guidelines on the issuance of DAR Clearance for land transfers and enumerates cases exempt from the requirement.

3. DAR Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 2002

*Subject: 2002 Comprehensive Rules on Land Use Conversion

*Section 4 – Exempts lands classified as non-agricultural before 15 June 1988 from DAR coverage, hence not requiring DAR Clearance.

*Legal basis for the exemption of non-agricultural lands from agrarian reform.

4. DAR AO No. 7, Series of 2011

*Subject: Rules and Procedures Governing the Acquisition and Distribution of Agricultural Lands under CARP

*Clarifies that lands not classified as agricultural or not covered under CARP are exempt from the issuance of DAR Clearance.

5. DAR Memorandum Circular No. 18, Series of 1997

*Subject: Transfer of Ownership of Agricultural Lands

* Clarifies that transfer of agricultural lands by hereditary succession is exempt from DAR Clearance.

6. DOJ Opinion No. 44, Series of 1990

*States that lands reclassified to non-agricultural use before June 15, 1988, by LGUs or other agencies are outside the coverage of CARP.

7. DAR AO No. 6, Series of 1994

*Subject: Guidelines for the Exclusion of Landholdings Forming Part of the Forest Zone, Mineral Lands, National Parks, etc.

*Serves as the basis for exemption of non-CARP areas such as forest reserves, national parks, and military reservations.