DAR milestones in GAD advocacy

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) of the Philippines has been instrumental in advancing Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE), supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and promoting sustainable development in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (AFF). Through various initiatives, DAR has significantly contributed to uplifting rural communities and fostering inclusive growth.

Empowering Women in Agrarian Communities

Recognizing the pivotal role of women in agriculture, DAR has implemented several programs aimed at enhancing their participation and leadership. A notable initiative is the Value-Chain Innovation for Sustainable Transformation in Agrarian Reform Communities (VISTA) project, launched in January 2025. With a budget of P6.2 billion, VISTA aims to empower 175,000 female farmers by addressing the root causes of rural poverty and creating economic opportunities for approximately 350,000 individuals, half of whom are women. 

In addition to VISTA, DAR has institutionalized gender equality within its operations. The department issued Administrative Order No. 01-11, which provides guidelines for mainstreaming Gender and Development (GAD) in the implementation of agrarian reform laws. This order ensures that both men and women have equal access to resources and opportunities, promoting a more equitable agrarian sector. 

Supporting MSMEs in Agrarian Reform Areas

DAR acknowledges the importance of MSMEs in driving rural development and has established policies to facilitate their growth. The Microfinance Policy Framework for Agrarian Reform Areas, outlined in Memorandum Circular No. 17, Series of 2003, aims to provide effective delivery of financial services to household and community-based enterprises. This framework emphasizes savings mobilization, capital build-up generation among agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs), and the promotion of sustainable microfinance institutions. 

Furthermore, the Microfinance Capacity Development Program in Agrarian Reform Areas (MicroFin_CAP@ARAs), initiated in collaboration with the Land Bank of the Philippines, focuses on building the capacities of ARBs to engage in viable microfinance activities. This program enhances the entrepreneurial skills of beneficiaries, enabling them to establish and manage successful MSMEs. 

Advancing Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry

DAR’s commitment to sustainable development in AFF sectors is evident through its Agrarian Reform Community (ARC) Development Strategy. Adopted in 1993, this strategy focuses on priority agrarian reform areas to maximize resource allocation and mobilization. It aims to improve the quality of life, promote people empowerment, and foster sustainable agro-industrial development within agrarian communities. 

Additionally, DAR’s Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) program seeks to increase the resilience of agricultural communities. By developing climate-resilient infrastructure and providing support services, ARCCESS enhances food security and promotes sustainable livelihoods among ARBs. 

Through these comprehensive initiatives, the Department of Agrarian Reform continues to champion women’s economic empowerment, support the growth of MSMEs, and advance sustainable practices in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, thereby contributing to the overall development and prosperity of rural communities in the Philippines.

DARPO Cagayan 2025 Women's Month Celebration -