MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) kicked off the distribution of financial aid to Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs), with the first batch of subsidies released on January 12, 2025, at the MAFAR Office in Marawi City.
Funded through the 2024 Supplemental Fund, the program aims to significantly enhance the livelihoods and productivity of ARBs and Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs). It targets 2,000 beneficiaries, including ARBs and farmer members from MILF camps, each receiving P5,000. A total of 1,000 beneficiaries have already received cash assistance.
In her remarks during the event, Deputy Minister Aisha A. Sanggacala acknowledged the resilience of the ARBs and expressed deep gratitude to the MAFAR Lanao del Sur team for their dedication and hard work in facilitating the distribution of funds. She emphasized the program’s role in improving the economic well-being of beneficiaries and driving sustainable agricultural growth in the region.
MAFAR Lanao del Sur Provincial Director Atty. Khalid D. Ansano also highlighted the importance of the financial subsidy in strengthening the economic foundation of ARBs. However, he encouraged beneficiaries to view the assistance as a catalyst for long-term progress.
He urged ARBs to invest in education, practical skills, and a growth mindset for their children to ensure that the benefits of the subsidy continue to multiply across generations.
The release of financial aid to the first batch of beneficiaries marks the beginning of MAFAR’s ongoing efforts to uplift the agricultural sector in Lanao del Sur. The program empowers ARBs, supports agricultural productivity, and advances the province’s socio-economic development. (MAFAR/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)