MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-Bukidnon has reiterated its impartial stance as it conducted a dialogue and field investigation over the alleged eviolation of a status quo agreement within the contested 195-hectare area in New Visayas, Don Carlos, Bukidnon, on May 21, 2026

In a statement, DAR-Bukidnon said the complaint was raised by the Menuvu KirintekenIlentungen group following the reported construction of post holes inside the disputed area. The
Indigenous Peoples (IP) group claimed the activity violated the status quo agreement reached
during a “Pulong-Pulong” dialogue between DAR and the Menuvu Kirinteken-Ilentungen on
April 27, 2026.
The dialogue, held at the DAR Municipal Office in Don Carlos, served as a venue to clarify
concerns, prevent further misunderstanding, and maintain peace and order while the matter
undergoes proper validation and assessment.
During the meeting, concerned Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) were given the
opportunity to explain their side and clarify the circumstances surrounding the construction of
the post holes. Among those present were leaders of the Bocboc New Visayas San Francisco
Association (BNSFA), including Vice President Neda Abellanosa and Board of Trustees
members Josefreddie Flores and Datu Eddie Boy Ompigan.
Following the dialogue, DAR-Bukidnon proceeded with a field investigation and on-site
validation within the contested area in Barangay New Visayas, Don Carlos. Prior to the
inspection, the agency coordinated with barangay officials to secure permission and support for
the activity.
DAR personnel also met with the Menuvu Kirinteken-Ilentungen group, where a ritual was
conducted before entering the area—an act that highlighted respect for Indigenous Peoples’
culture and traditions in line with the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standard 7
(ESS7). Representatives from the IP group likewise joined the validation and inspection of the
alleged post holes on the ground.
According to DAR-Bukidnon, the field investigation aimed to verify the actual condition of the
area and assess the allegations raised by the concerned parties. The process also sought to gather
factual information necessary for proper evaluation and appropriate action under existing laws,
policies, and agreements.
DAR-Bukidnon emphasized that the agency remains neutral and does not favor any party
involved, whether the ARBs or the IP group. PARPO II Jammal G. Pangandaman reiterated
during the dialogue that the agency’s objective is to uphold the rights of agrarian reform
beneficiaries while respecting Indigenous Peoples through the implementation of ESS7.
Pending the discretion of the DAR Central Office, the disputed area remains under the existing
status quo agreement.
DAR-Bukidnon added that it continues to uphold fairness, transparency, and due process in
resolving issues while promoting peaceful dialogue, mutual respect, and lawful conflict
resolution among stakeholders. (melbmadera)