By Marita Moaje
MANILA – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has warned the public against a circulating draft document on the alleged removal of clearance requirements for certain land transactions, stressing that the policy remains under review and has not been finalized.
In a news release Tuesday, DAR Head Executive Assistant Nestor Ifurung Jr. emphasized that the Office of the Secretary did not issue the document, adding it has no legal force or effect and thus cannot be used as a basis for any land transaction, proceeding, or official action.
“The document is still in draft form and remains under review, including consultations with concerned government agencies and key stakeholders,” he said
“These discussions are being conducted to ensure that any future policy will remain consistent with existing laws and will protect the rights and interests of all parties involved,” he added.
Ifurung clarified that despite having been signed by Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, the signature was only affixed as part of a preparatory administrative step ahead of official travel and does not indicate approval or finalization.
He added that discussions are ongoing to ensure that any eventual policy is in harmony with existing laws.
DAR has urged the public to refrain from sharing or relying on the said document and to wait for official issuances released through proper government channels.
Ifurong also assured that an investigation is already underway to determine how the draft document was circulated without authorization.
“Those found responsible may face appropriate administrative, civil, or criminal sanctions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations,” he said. (PNA)
