President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday lauded outstanding agrarian reform beneficiaries, organizations, and communities during the Gawad Agraryo 2025 ceremony, underscoring their role in strengthening the nation’s food security and rural development.
Speaking at the Makabagong San Juan National Government Center, Mr. Marcos also pledged to sustain agricultural reforms aimed at improving the lives of Filipino farmers.
“Despite the weight of their daily burdens, their dreams of supporting their families and improving their livelihoods still burn brightly,” the chief executive said.
He honored 17 awardees chosen from 45 finalists, 10 Most Outstanding Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs), three Most Progressive Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries’ Organizations (ARBOs), and four Most Progressive Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs).
Each awardee received a plaque, medal, and P25,000 in cash. Meanwhile, ARBOs and ARCs were also granted plaques, medals, and development projects worth P70,000 each.
The Gawad Agraryo, established in 2008, recognizes farmers, groups, and communities that have shown exemplary performance and innovation in agriculture. Since its inception, 35 individuals and organizations have been honored.
The President said his administration continues to implement reforms to ease the burden on farmers, citing the distribution of nearly 70,000 Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs), condonation of agrarian debts through Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgages, and the provision of farming equipment.
“The amount that should have gone to government payments can now be used for new seeds, machinery, or better lives for your families,” Mr. Marcos said.
Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella, who also celebrated his birthday during the ceremony, joined the President in recognizing the beneficiaries.
