Baguio: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Cordillera Administrative Region (DENR-CAR) issued 675 land patents in September, granting recipients legal ownership and security. DENR-CAR Executive Director Paquito Moreno highlighted the significance of these patents, saying they provide the highest proof of ownership, enabling beneficiaries to invest in and develop their properties.

According to Philippines News Agency, the patents issued between September 1 and 25 included 284 residential patents covering 4,467 hectares, 357 agricultural patents covering 4,233 hectares, and 34 special patents covering 233 hectares. During the 'Handog ng Pangulo' service caravan on September 19 in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally handed over 10 patents to local government units.

The Baguio City government, the municipality of Lamut in Ifugao, the Bokod municipal government in Benguet, and the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) were among the recipients. Bokod Mayor Erikk Don Ignacio expressed gratitude for the four patents received, emphasizing the importance of land ownership for securing funds for infrastructure projects. Capt. Novi Ann Bangiacan of the BCPO logistics and supply unit noted that the grant was their second land title from DENR, which would provide a permanent base for the Mobile Force Company.

She remarked on the challenges of acquiring land titles in Baguio and expressed appreciation to DENR for their assistance. The BCPO still has 13 pending applications for other police offices, underscoring the ongoing need for secured sites.