Cagayan Valley’s Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Shine at 'The Grand Bagsakan in Manila

MANILA, Philippines – The heart of Binondo pulsed with the vibrant energy of Cagayan Valley's agricultural heritage as "The Grand Bagsakan" and the inaugural Negosyo Agraryo Fair unfolded on June 19, 2024, at Lucky Chinatown Mall's Ground Atrium and 2nd Floor Railings.

This landmark event spotlighted the rich array of products from Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries' Organizations (ARBOs) of Region II, also known as the Cagayan Valley region. Organized collaboratively by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 2, the fair aimed to bridge the gap between rural producers and urban consumers, providing ARBOs with a platform to showcase and sell their goods directly to Metro Manila's bustling market.

A Cornucopia of Regional Delights

Visitors were treated to a diverse selection of fresh produce, including highland vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and chayote, as well as lowland staples such as tomatoes and eggplants. The fair also featured an assortment of processed goods: the region's renowned chicharabao (crispy carabao skin), milk candies, and various non-food items reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Cagayan Valley.

Empowering Local Enterprises

The event brought together 63 participants, with 30 representing the One Town One Product (OTOP) program and 33 hailing from the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). These participants had undergone extensive training and seminars to enhance their entrepreneurial skills, ensuring they were well-prepared to engage with a broader market and seize new business opportunities.

Institutional Support and Market Expansion

The significance of the fair in expanding market access for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and local farmers is part of ongoing efforts to provide wider market opportunities for MSMEs and local farmers, allowing them to introduce their products to Metro Manila and beyond.

The fair also attracted institutional buyers, further amplifying the potential for sustained business relationships and market growth for the participating ARBOs.

Specifically, Promoting Cagayan Valley agrarian reform beneficiaries' (ARBs) products in Metro Manila serves several important economic, social, and developmental goals:

1. Expanding Market Access

Cagayan Valley is an agricultural powerhouse, but its local market is limited. Bringing ARBs' products to Metro Manila — the Philippines’ largest consumer base — allows farmers to:

• Sell in higher volumes.

• Command better prices.

• Reduce reliance on middlemen.

This helps ARBs generate more income and scale their agribusinesses sustainably.

2. Enhancing Economic Inclusion

Agrarian reform aims to empower smallholder farmers and rural communities. Promoting their goods in urban centers like Manila:

• Levels the playing field between rural producers and large agri-corporations.

• Brings marginalized farmers into the mainstream economy.

• Showcases that ARBs can be agri-preneurs, not just producers.

3. Supporting Food Security and Localization

Manila relies heavily on rural regions like Cagayan Valley for food. Highlighting these producers:

• Strengthens regional food systems.

• Encourages urban consumers to support local and traceable food sources.

• Reduces supply chain risks by promoting direct-from-farm sourcing.

4. Fostering Product Recognition and Branding

Many ARBOs produce high-quality but underrecognized products. Exposure in Metro Manila helps:

• Build product awareness and brand identity.

• Attract partnerships with institutional buyers, hotels, restaurants, and retailers.

• Set the stage for future exports or expansion.

5. Encouraging Investment and Policy Support

Visibility in the capital often draws attention from:

• Policymakers and legislators.

• NGOs and development partners.

• Investors looking for inclusive business models.

This exposure can unlock more funding and support for regional agribusinesses.

6. Strengthening the Agrarian Reform Program

Ultimately, showcasing ARB products in Manila validates the long-term vision of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). It proves that:

• Land reform can lead to viable rural enterprises.

• Small-scale farmers can compete in national markets.

• With the right support, agrarian reform beneficiaries can thrive.

Also, promoting Cagayan Valley ARBs' products in Metro Manila isn't just about selling produce — it's about connecting economies, reducing inequality, and empowering rural communities through inclusive development.

A Model for Sustainable Development

The success of "The Grand Bagsakan" and the Negosyo Agraryo Fair underscores the potential of collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities in promoting sustainable economic development. By providing a platform for ARBOs to showcase their products, the event not only celebrated the agricultural richness of Cagayan Valley but also highlighted the importance of empowering rural communities through market integration.

As the fair concluded, the enthusiasm and positive feedback from both vendors and consumers signaled a promising future for similar initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth and bridging the urban-rural divide.

Blogging in the Philippines...Wazzup!

Blogging in the Philippines remains a dynamic and evolving field in 2025, shaped by technological
changes, consumer behavior, and digital marketing strategies. Here's a comprehensive look at its current state:

Overview of Blogging in the Philippines (2025)

📱Shift from Traditional Blogs to Multi-Platform Content: Classic blogging (text-based, hosted on WordPress or Blogger) is no longer the dominant format. Content creators now favor multimedia platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook Reels, though many still maintain personal blogs for in-depth content or SEO purposes. Blogging has increasingly merged with vlogging, podcasting, and short-form video content.

🧑‍💻Top Niches for Filipino Bloggers

These areas remain the most popular and profitable: (1) Lifestyle (daily routines, family life, productivity tips); (2) Food and Travel (local explorations, hidden gems, food reviews); (3) Beauty and Fashion (product reviews, trends, local brands); (4) Technology and Gaming (gadgets, app reviews, gaming culture); and (5) Finance and Freelancing (budgeting tips, online income sources, remote work).

💰Monetization and Brand Collaborations. Filipino bloggers earn through ads, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, digital products, and brand partnerships. Influencer platforms like Blogapalooza, Raket.ph, and Nuffnang connect bloggers with businesses. Even micro-influencers (with 1k–10k followers) can earn with highly engaged niche audiences.

📉 Challenges in 2025: (1) Oversaturation. With thousands of content creators, standing out is harder than ever; (2) Algorithm dependency. Platforms like Facebook and TikTok change algorithms frequently, affecting reach; (3) Misinformation and regulation. Some creators face scrutiny over ethical content, fake news, and sponsored posts disclosure; and (4) Monetization fatigue. Brands are more selective, and influencers must show real value and authenticity.

📈 Emerging Trends. (1) AI tools for writing, scheduling, analytics, and personalization are becoming mainstream (2) Sustainability and social advocacy are key themes; creators who support environmental or social causes are in demand; (3) Local language content (Tagalog, Bisaya, Ilocano, etc.) is growing in popularity as bloggers tap into regional markets; and (4) Community-focused blogging: Bloggers now build Discord groups, mailing lists, and exclusive membership sites (e.g., via Patreon or Ko-fi).

Education and Training. More universities and private groups are offering workshops and certifications on blogging, digital marketing, and influencer branding. Events like iBlog (formerly at UP Diliman) and Blogapalooza have shifted focus to influencer marketing and creator education.

Blogging in the Philippines is no longer just about long-form writing—it's a multifaceted creator economy. Whether you're a hobbyist, journalist, or aspiring influencer, there's still space to grow by carving out a unique niche, producing quality content, and staying connected with your audience.

Blogging landscape evolution. As of 2025, the Philippine blogging landscape continues to evolve, reflecting shifts in digital consumption, influencer marketing, and content creation. Here's an overview of the current state:

📉 Decline in Traditional Blogging and Micro-Blogging. Recent data indicates a decrease in the use of social media platforms for brand research among Filipinos. Specifically, micro-blogging platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have seen a 26.2% drop in usage for this purpose, while vlogs experienced a 23.8% decline . This trend suggests a shift in how audiences engage with content and discover new brands.

📈 Rise of Niche Blogging and Micro-Influencers. In response to changing audience behaviors, there's a growing emphasis on niche blogging and the emergence of micro and nano influencers. These content creators focus on specific topics, allowing them to build dedicated and engaged communities. Brands are increasingly collaborating with these influencers to reach targeted audiences authentically .

🤖 Integration of AI and Emphasis on Sustainability.

Filipino digital influencers are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) tools to enhance content creation, optimize search engine visibility, and personalize user experiences. Additionally, there's a notable shift towards promoting sustainability and social responsibility. Many influencers are aligning their content with environmental values, reflecting the growing consumer demand for ethical practices .

The Philippine blogging scene in 2025 is characterized by a shift towards niche content, the rise of micro-influencers, and the integration of AI tools. While traditional blogging faces challenges, the adaptability and innovation of Filipino bloggers ensure the continued relevance and dynamism of the industry.

iBlog

The Philippine Blogging Summit, known as iBlog, has been a significant event in the country's digital landscape, bringing together bloggers, influencers, content creators, and digital marketers. Traditionally held at Malcolm Theater, Malcolm Hall, within the University of the Philippines College of Law in UP Diliman, Quezon City, the summit served as a platform for discussions on blogging trends, monetization strategies, legal considerations, and the evolving role of bloggers in society.

🗓️ Historical Context

The last recorded iBlog event, iBlog15: The Finale, took place on November 9, 2019, marking the summit's 15th iteration. This half-day event featured panels on topics such as the transformation of blogging in the Philippine internet space, the crossing of boundaries by bloggers into various domains, and discussions on monetization and competition among bloggers.

📍 Venue: Malcolm Hall is a historic building within the UP Diliman campus, housing the College of Law. Named after Associate Justice George Malcolm, the hall has been a central venue for various academic and professional events, including the iBlog summits.

✅ While the iBlog summit played a pivotal role in shaping the Philippine blogging community, there have been no updates regarding its continuation in recent years. For those interested in similar events or updates on the blogging landscape in the Philippines, it may be beneficial to follow digital marketing forums, influencer networks, and academic institutions that host related conferences and workshops.

Blogapalooza

Blogapalloza is the Philippines' premier influencer marketing company, established in 2011. Initially launched as the country's first and largest annual networking and marketing event for businesses and bloggers, Blogapalooza has evolved into a leading influencer marketing firm. The company fosters collaborations between brands and a vast community of over 50,000 influencers, content creators, and bloggers across the Philippines and neighboring Southeast Asian countries.

🚀 2025 Initiatives: #BetterBloga Movement

In 2025, Blogapalooza introduced the #BetterBloga movement, aiming to elevate the influencer marketing landscape through collaboration, innovation, and community empowerment. Key initiatives under this movement include: (1) Strategic Partnerships- Engaging with industry leaders, such as discussions with Google's Philippine office, to explore collaborative opportunities, particularly in enhancing YouTube's programs in the local market; (2) Talent Development- Launching the "Next Level Leaders" program, an intensive training initiative designed to equip the BlogaTeam with essential skills in leadership, coaching, and cross-industry collaboration; and (3) Community Engagement- Participating in events like MADWORLD 2025, the country's largest junior marketing conference, to introduce aspiring marketers to the world of influencer marketing.

🌐 Services and Offerings

Blogapalooza provides a comprehensive suite of services tailored to both brands and influencers, including: (1) Influencer Campaign Management: Designing and executing campaigns that connect brands with their target audiences through authentic influencer collaborations; (2) Talent Development: Offering training and resources to help influencers enhance their skills and professionalize their craft; (3) Creator Management: Managing a diverse roster of talents under their BX Talents program, ensuring optimal brand-influencer matches; and (4) Industry Research: Conducting studies and providing insights into the influencer marketing landscape to inform strategies and best practices.

📍 Headquarters and Contact

Blogapalooza Inc. is headquartered at: Level 10-1, 10/F One Global Place, 25th St. corner 5th Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, Metro Manila. For more information or to explore collaboration opportunities, visit their official website: [www.blogapalooza.ph](https://www.blogapalooza.ph/)

The future of Philippine Blogging

The future of Philippine blogging is bright but rapidly evolving, driven by changes in technology, audience behavior, and digital marketing dynamics. Here's a forward-looking analysis of what lies ahead for blogging in the Philippines:

🌐1. Blogging Will Be More Than Just Writing: Multimedia-first - Future bloggers will need to master video, audio, and visual storytelling, not just text. Integrated content creation- Successful bloggers will operate across blogs, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, newsletters, and podcast, what we now call content ecosystems.

🤖 2. Rise of AI-Powered Blogging.  AI tools will increasingly support writing, editing, SEO, and even content strategy. Filipino bloggers will use tools like ChatGPT, Canva AI, Jasper, and SurferSEO to optimize productivity and compete globally. AI-generated content will raise ethical questions—authenticity and originality will become vital differentiators.

📱 3. Micro-Influencers & Hyperlocal Content Will Thrive. Brands are shifting toward niche creators with smaller but highly engaged followings. Regional bloggers creating content in Bisaya, Ilocano, Hiligaynon, or Taglish will gain traction, especially as internet access deepens in provinces. Local businesses will increasingly rely on community-level bloggers for grassroots marketing.

🎓 4. Formalization of the Creator Economy. Blogging and digital content creation will be treated more like professions. More colleges will offer digital media courses. Government bodies may begin regulating influencer marketing and requiring clearer ad disclosures. Expect professional certifications or associations (like a "Philippine Creators Guild") to emerge.

💼 5. Stronger Focus on Ethics, Advocacy & Impact. Blogging will move beyond product reviews and lifestyle tips to include: Social advocacy (mental health, climate change, women's rights, local culture); Civic engagement (election awareness, fact-checking, digital literacy); and Bloggers will have growing influence in shaping public opinion—especially among youth.

💡 6. Monetization Will Diversify. In addition to sponsored posts and ads, bloggers will earn through: Digital products (ebooks, templates, courses), Subscriptions (via Patreon, Ko-fi, BuyMeACoffee), Creator marketplaces (Blogapalooza, TikTok Creator Marketplace) and NFTs and blockchain-based loyalty programs (emerging but experimental).

🔗 7. Community and Collaboration Will Be Key. Future bloggers will focus on building online communities, not just audiences. Expect more: Collaborative blogging projects, Cross-platform partnerships, Creator collectives (shared platforms/resources), and IRL events like creator camps or regional meetups.

👣 What Filipino Bloggers Should Do to Prepare. Master multi-format content creation (writing, video, audio); Learn digital tools (AI, SEO, design, automation), Focus on authenticity and engagement, not just follower count; Build a niche and personal brand; Stay informed on regulations, ethics, and creator rights; and Collaborate with like-minded creators.

 

DAR intensifies its legal measures vs premature and illegal agricultural land conversions

Illegal land use conversion remains a significant concern in the Philippines, particularly regarding the unauthorized transformation of agricultural lands into non-agricultural uses without the necessary approvals.

Current Status and Challenges

Continued Unauthorized Conversions: Despite existing regulations, instances of illegal land conversions persist. These unauthorized activities often involve the premature development of agricultural lands for residential or commercial purposes without securing the required conversion orders from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). Such practices threaten food security and undermine agrarian reform efforts.

Legislative Efforts: The proposed National Land Use Act (NLUA), aimed at harmonizing land use policies and providing a comprehensive framework for land use planning, remains pending in the Senate as of May 2025. The absence of this law contributes to inconsistencies in land use decisions and enforcement across different regions.

DAR's Enforcement Measures: The DAR has intensified its efforts to curb illegal land conversions by issuing cease and desist orders, conducting site inspections, and initiating legal actions against violators. For instance, in the Zamboanga Peninsula, the DAR has taken steps to prevent premature and unauthorized land conversions.

 

Legal Framework

Under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (Republic Act No. 6657), specifically Section 65, the conversion of agricultural lands to non-agricultural uses requires prior approval from the DAR. Unauthorized conversions are considered illegal and are penalized under Section 73 of the same law. The 2002 Comprehensive Rules on Land Use Conversion further define illegal conversion as the act of changing the current use of agricultural land into non-agricultural uses without the required order of conversion from the DAR.

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has implemented significant updates to its land use conversion policies through Administrative Order (AO) No. 03, Series of 2021, and its amendment AO No. 03-A. These revisions aim to streamline the conversion process, enhance transparency, and strengthen enforcement against unauthorized conversions.

🔑 Key Provisions of DAR AO No. 03 & 03-A (Series of 2021)

1. Streamlined Application Process

Digital Filing: Applicants can now submit land use conversion applications electronically, reducing the need for physical submissions and expediting the process.

Reduced Bureaucracy: The requirement for clearances from agencies like the Department of Agriculture (DA), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has been removed. DAR now solely evaluates conversion applications, significantly shortening processing times.

2. Enhanced Enforcement Against Illegal Conversions

Mandatory Conversion Order: Changing the use of agricultural land without a DAR-issued conversion order is explicitly prohibited. Unauthorized conversions are considered illegal and are subject to penalties under Section 73 of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (RA 6657).

Performance Bond Requirement: Applicants must post a performance bond to deter premature land development before obtaining official conversion approval.

Public Notice: Applicants are required to install visible billboards (4x8 feet) on the property, informing the public of the pending conversion application. This measure promotes transparency and allows for community feedback.

3. Protection of Agricultural Lands

Non-Negotiable Areas: Certain lands, such as those under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS), mossy and virgin forests, riverbanks, and swamp forests, are strictly non-convertible to preserve ecological balance and food security.

Highly Restricted Areas: Lands with Notices of Land Valuation and Acquisition or those under Voluntary Land Transfer/Direct Payment Scheme agreements are highly restricted from conversion to protect the rights of agrarian reform beneficiaries.

4. Specific Rules for CLOA Lands

Five-Year Cultivation Rule: Agrarian reform beneficiaries must cultivate the land for at least five years before applying for conversion. Additionally, the land must be fully paid, and the area should have become urbanized or no longer economically viable for agriculture.

Ten-Year Alienation Restriction: Even after conversion, CLOA lands cannot be sold or transferred to non-qualified individuals within ten years from the registration date without DAR clearance.

These updated rules reflect DAR's commitment to balancing agricultural land preservation with the country's developmental needs. By streamlining procedures and enforcing stricter regulations against illegal conversions, the department aims to protect agrarian reform beneficiaries and ensure sustainable land use.

 

Implications

Illegal land use conversions have far-reaching implications, including the displacement of farmers, loss of agricultural productivity, and threats to food security. The continued vigilance of regulatory bodies, coupled with the enactment of comprehensive land use legislation, is crucial in addressing these challenges.

 

Sources:

[1] https://www.panaynews.net/dar-warns-against-premature-illegal-land-conversion-in-wv/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "DAR warns against premature, illegal land conversion in WV"

[2] https://www.lawyer-philippines.com/articles/land-use-conversion-for-cloa-title?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Land Use Conversion for CLOA Title - Respicio & Co."

[3] https://pia.gov.ph/dar-intensifies-legal-measures-vs-agricultural-land-conversion/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "DAR intensifies legal measures vs agricultural land conversion"

[4]: https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2021/07/19/383521/dar-allows-digital-filing-of-land-conversion-applications/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "DAR allows digital filing of land conversion applications"

[5]: https://creba.ph/new-land-conversion-rules-to-boost-economic-recovery/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "New Land Conversion Rules to Boost Economic Recovery - CREBA"

[6]: https://media.dar.gov.ph/source/2021/07/06/ao-03-amending-certain-provisions-of-the-comprehensive-rules-on-land-use-conversion-under-dar-ao-no-1-series-of-2002-and-certain-provisions-on-dar-ao-no-1-series-of-2019-and-dar-ao-no-6-series-of-2019-to.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com "[PDF] administrative order no. 03 - Department of Agrarian Reform"

[7]: https://www.scribd.com/document/612805337/Partially-Revised-By-AO-3-s-2021-Comprehensive-Rules-on-Land-Use-Conversion-FINAL?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Partially Revised-By AO 3 S 2021 Comprehensive Rules On Land ..."

[8]: https://www.lawyer-philippines.com/articles/land-use-conversion-for-cloa-title?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Land Use Conversion for CLOA Title - Respicio & Co."

 

How to propose NCI-SRD Areas

The National Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development (NCI-SRD) is a multi-agency strategy in the Philippines that aims to promote integrated and sustainable rural development by harmonizing and aligning the efforts of key government agencies.

National Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development (NCI-SRD) is a collaboration among key government agencies such as the:

*Department of Agriculture (DA)

*Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)

*Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

*Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)

These agencies collaborate to align programs and resources for rural development through convergence areas.

 

How to propose Areas for inclusion in the National Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development (NCI-SRD).

Step-by-Step: How to Propose Areas for SRD-NCI

 

1. Understand the NCI-SRD Framework

   The initiative focuses on resource-based and community-centered development.

Areas are selected based on:

     Presence of government lands (e.g., agrarian reform, forest lands)

     Development potential

     Needs of farming/fishing communities

     Multi-agency relevance

 

2. Coordinate with Local Government Units (LGUs)

   * LGUs play a key role in nominating areas for convergence.

   * Work with Municipal or Provincial Planning and Development Offices (MPDO/PPDO) to draft a proposal or expression of interest.

 

3. Assess and Document the Area

   Gather data such as:

     * Agro-ecological characteristics

     * Livelihood profiles

     * Environmental challenges

     * Infrastructure and services

     * Identify which NCI agencies would have overlapping mandates or programs in the area.

 

4. Draft a Proposal or Concept Note

   Typical contents include:

     *Name and location of proposed area

     *Justification for inclusion (alignment with SRD goals)

     *Current development issues

  *Opportunities for convergence (e.g., agri development, tenure security, watershed management)

     *Stakeholder map (LGUs, community orgs, IPs, cooperatives, etc.)

 

5. Submit to Regional Convergence Initiative

   * Proposals are usually reviewed at the Regional Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development (RCI-SRD) level.

   * RCI-SRD is composed of regional representatives of DA, DAR, DENR, and DILG.

 

6. Follow Up and Participate in Planning

   * If accepted, the area may be included in:

     *Site validation

     *Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)

     *Convergence Area Development Planning (CADP)

 

7. Ensure Community Engagement

   * Projects under SRD-NCI must reflect community priorities and local ownership.

   * Engage local leaders, cooperatives, indigenous groups, and women’s associations early in the process.

📍Example of Impact Areas

Upland communities with forest lands under DENR, agrarian reform areas under DAR, and agricultural zones under DA.

Areas with potential for eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and indigenous cultural preservation.

Sites facing environmental degradation or poverty but with strong local government support.

 

🏛️ Institutional Framework

NCI-SRD National Steering Committee – Oversees policy direction.

Technical Working Group (TWG) – Handles program development and coordination.

Regional Convergence Initiative (RCI-SRD) – Implements and monitors activities at the regional level.

 

🌱 Why It Matters

The NCI-SRD tackles rural poverty, environmental degradation, and inefficiencies in government service delivery by breaking down agency silos and putting communities at the center of development.

LINKs: 

FAQs on NCI-SRD

National Convergence Initiative for Sustainable Rural Development (NCI-SRD)

CADP Manual of Operations 

About NCI-SRD 

NCI-SRD Covergence areas