DAVAO CITY – The Department of Agrarian Reform in Davao Region (DAR-11) wants to determine the extent of the damages caused by the onslaught of typhoon Vinta to the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) in the area.
Typhoon Vinta made its landfall in Cateel, Davao Oriental at around 1:45 a.m. on December 22, Saturday that caused flooding and landslides in the region, particularly in the provinces of Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental and in the cities of Davao, Tagum, and Panabo.
The typhoon also forced some residents in Davao region to evacuate to safe areas due to floods and landslides.
DAR-11 Regional Director Joseph H. Orilla said he has already given directives to the provincial officers of Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Davao Occidental and Davao City to assess the situation of the ARBs, particularly on the effects of typhoon Vinta.
The assessment will also focus on the damages to projects previously released to ARBs as part of the support services of the agrarian reform program.
Orilla emphasized the importance of the assessment as it will serve as the basis of actions that will be carried out by DAR to support the affected ARBs.
The assessment was also supported by Director Leomides R. Villareal of the Public Assistance and Media Relations Service (PAMRS) of DAR Central Office.
Villareal said ARBs, especially in the countryside were among those affected by typhoon Vinta and that DAR must provide them with the necessary support.
Orilla and Villareal, together with other officials of DAR in Davao Region already met to finalize the scheme of the assessment.
Davao Region is among the areas in the country where DAR facilitated the release of certificates of land ownership award (CLOAs) and the implementation of support programs and services to farmer-beneficiaries this year.
The fast-tracking of the release of land titles and support programs is among the thrust of the administration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to emancipate the farmers from poverty.
The same thrust was also reiterated by newly-appointed DAR Acting Secretary John R. Castriciones when he assumed office earlier this month.
Castriciones recently visited Davao Region where he met with top DAR officials from various parts of Mindanao. (DAR-PR)
