Mr. Pascual Manalang: A Pillar of Agrarian Reform in Bayambang

Mr. Pascual Manalang: A Pillar of Agrarian Reform in Bayambang

Agrarian reform has always been a vital issue in the Philippines, ensuring that farmers and landowners alike are granted their rightful claims and protections. Among those who have tirelessly championed agrarian rights is Mr. Pascual Manalang, whose unwavering dedication has left a lasting impact on the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Bayambang. As the LGU’s Agrarian Affairs Consultant, Mr. Manalang has silently exemplified service, expertise, and commitment to upholding agrarian laws and ensuring fair land distribution and utilization. His retirement from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) did not mark the end of his contributions but rather the beginning of a new chapter in his service to the community.

Mr. Manalang’s consultancy work has been instrumental in addressing various agrarian concerns in Bayambang. His expertise in handling requests for assistance on land conversion applications has provided landowners and farmers with guidance in navigating complex legal processes. Guided by insider knowledge and through his efforts, many applicants have successfully converted lands for productive use while ensuring compliance with existing regulations.

Furthermore, Mr. Manalang has played a crucial role in resolving boundary disputes, an issue that often causes conflicts between and among quarreling landowners and tenants. His deep understanding of agrarian laws has allowed him to mediate and provide fair resolutions, fostering harmony in the local agricultural sector. His work has helped prevent long-standing disputes from escalating into legal battles, promoting amicable settlements instead.

Unauthorized sale of landholdings and illegal subleasing are among the pressing concerns in agrarian communities. Mr. Manalang has dedicated his expertise to addressing these issues, ensuring that transactions comply with legal requirements and that tenants' rights are protected. His vigilance in preventing unauthorized land transfers has safeguarded the interests of farmers, preventing exploitative practices that could jeopardize their livelihood.

Another significant area of Mr. Manalang’s work is advocating for the rights of tenants over their tenanted lots. Agrarian reform laws guarantee security of tenure for tenants, yet violations persist. Mr. Manalang has been a strong voice in upholding these rights, ensuring that tenants are not unlawfully evicted or denied their legal claims. His interventions have given many farmers the confidence to assert their rights and seek the protection they deserve.

Beyond his technical expertise, Mr. Manalang’s dedication and passion for service have earned him the respect and gratitude of the Bayambang community. His approachability and willingness to listen to the concerns of farmers and landowners alike, even during ungodly hours and official rest days, have made him a trusted figure in agrarian affairs in Bayambang’s 66 farming barangays. His unwavering commitment to justice and fairness has left an indelible mark, setting a standard of excellence for future agrarian reform advocates.

As we honor Mr. Pascual Manalang for his invaluable contributions, we recognize that his legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. His work has not only improved the lives of countless farmers but has also strengthened the foundations of agrarian justice in Bayambang. Though he may have retired from formal service, his impact as an Agrarian Affairs Consultant will remain for generations to come. The LGU of Bayambang and the entire community extend their deepest gratitude for his years of dedicated service, wishing him a fulfilling and rewarding professional life.