Making a difference: A case study on the lives of landowners under the comprehensive agrarian reform program in Iloilo, Philippines

Abstract

This study was conceptualized to explore the lives of the land owners under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) in the province of Iloilo. This study employed the descriptive multiple case study method. The respondents were five (5) land owners, one land owner per congressional district. The data gathering tools used were in-depth interviews and semi–structured interviews. Document analysis was also established. Data were transcribed, analyzed and coded into themes. The researchers developed the category and theme based on the data gathered. Theoretically, landowner’s feelings are still attached to the parcel of their lands covered by the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. In addition, landowners struggle about the loss of their lands and as they shift from agriculture to another field of endeavor such as working abroad, real estate, and others. The loss of the land motivated them to try other field of ventures. They also expressed problems about lack of notice and time especially those who had been residing and working abroad. Thus, there is a need to revisit the importance of the rights, privileges and programs for the landowners and discuss the benefits for the land owners, and further improve the land information system of CARP.