DAR completes P200M worth of bridge projects, condones P190M in Nueva Ecija farmer debt

THE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) said it turned over two bridges worth nearly P200 million in Guimba, Nueva Ecija, while also forgiving close to P190 million in unpaid land amortizations for agrarian reform beneficiaries in Central Luzon.

Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III inaugurated the 41.5-meter Cavite-Sta. Ana Bridge, linking Barangays Cavite and Sta. Ana, and the 41.5-meter Balbalino Bridge in Barangay Balbalino. The structures replace narrow, flood-prone crossings that previously hindered transport during heavy rains.

Approximately 2,410 residents will benefit from the Cavite-Sta. Ana Bridge, while 1,161 will gain from the Balbalino Bridge. Most beneficiaries are agrarian reform beneficiaries and smallholder farmers producing rice and vegetables.

The bridges are expected to reduce post-harvest losses, improve access to trading centers and government services, and stimulate economic activity through enhanced mobility and market connections.

DAR also distributed Certificates of Condonation covering the P190 million in forgiven land amortizations, interest, and penalties for over 3,600 hectares of awarded farmland in Central Luzon. The agency released more than P16 million in credit assistance and awarded land titles and scholarships to ARB dependents. — Pierce Oel A. Montalvo