The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Ilagan Extension Office (EO) has officially formed a strategic partnership with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Region II, aimed at enhancing compliance with reportorial requirements and promoting financial literacy among agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs) in the region.
A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was officially signed on June 11, 2025, marking a significant milestone as the Ilagan EO’s first collaboration with a national government agency under the SEC Communication, Advocacy, and Network (SEC CAN!) initiative. This partnership highlights a shared commitment to empowering ARBOs through improved regulatory compliance and economic education.
Under the terms of the agreement, the SEC Ilagan EO is dedicated to providing comprehensive assistance to ARBOs, including support for their registration processes and the fulfillment of corporate reportorial requirements. Additionally, the EO will hold essential seminars focused on investor protection and financial literacy, equipping ARBOs with vital knowledge to manage their finances effectively and safeguard their investments.
In return, DAR Region II will actively work with the Ilagan EO, offering technical and administrative support to facilitate the successful implementation of various initiatives envisioned under the SEC CAN! program. This collaborative effort aims to streamline processes and maximize the reach and impact of the services provided to agrarian communities.
The signing ceremony was attended by key officials from both agencies. Representing DAR Region II were Regional Director Primo C. Lara, Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer Jenalyn F. Baleva, Supervising Agrarian Reform Program Officer Alma Algeria, and OIC Senior Agrarian Reform Program Officer Eufemia D. Baculi. The SEC Ilagan EO was represented by OIC Director Leonard P. Pua, along with Ramon King L. Ballesteros, Maria Angela L. Dela Cruz, and Noveline R. Fernandez.
This partnership is expected to significantly contribute to the stability and growth of ARBOs in Region II, ensuring their adherence to regulatory standards while promoting sustainable financial practices for their members.
