A - Villanueva

The 1987 Constitution has, as one of its main thrusts, the agrarian reform program.
The framers of the present Constitution have realized that one of the important keys
to uplift the national economy is to ensure that the farmers are given the
opportunities they deserve, as well as providing them with the means.

Several provisions of the Constitution strengthen the policy that the farmers of the
country, especially those who are landless, should be recognized. This is to make
such people more independent, self-reliant and responsible citizens as well as helpers
in the rising of the economy of the country. It cannot be denied that these farmers
have played a bigger role than we have imagined, but, unfortunately, the same people
have also been denied or given little opportunities to share in the wealth of the
country.

The present Constitution, by including Agrarian and Natural Resources Reform as

one of its headings, has aimed to lay down policies and programs which would
protect, promote and encourage farmers and farmworkers. In a nutshell, it could be
said that the Constitution foresees an inclusive economy, wherein everyone reaps
the benefits and not only a handful of people.

Social justice, through a sound agricultural land reform program, is definitely one of
the pillars of the present Constitution.