The distribution of land titles led by the PENRO Negros Occidental and CENRO Bago marked a significant milestone under the Handog Titulo Program of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). This flagship initiative aims to promote land ownership security and empower communities by granting legal ownership of residential and public lands.
Seventy (70) Residential Free Patents were awarded to beneficiaries, providing them with legal ownership of the residential lands they have been occupying. This ensures security of tenure and offers an opportunity to fully utilize and develop these lands. Additionally, three (3) Patents were granted to the LGU of La Carlota City, allowing the local government to use the lands for public purposes or community development. One (1) Patent was also granted to the Department of Education (DepEd) for Haguimit Elementary School, ensuring its continued operation and expansion to better serve the educational needs of the community.
These land titles were processed under Section 4 of Republic Act No. 10023, also known as the Residential Free Patent Act, which streamlines the land titling process for residential lands. Special patents were also granted for public lands allocated for government use or institutions like schools.
Key officials present at the event included Dr. Rex R. Jalando-on, Mayor of La Carlota City, who emphasized the importance of formal land ownership in driving community progress and development. Edgardo Rostata, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services of DENR Region 6, reiterated the DENR’s commitment to simplifying the titling process. PENRO Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya highlighted the collaborative efforts of various government agencies in bringing the Handog Titulo Program to fruition, while CENRO Officer Rosievel Dimatulac underscored the role of CENRO Bago in supporting land management initiatives. Barangay officials also extended their support and helped facilitate the event at the grassroots level.