DA Approves P2.06-Billion Farm-to-Market Roads and Bridges to Strengthen Agricultural Connectivity Nationwide
MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has approved the implementation of more than PHP2.06 billion worth of farm-to-market road (FMR) and bridge projects across the country, reinforcing the government's commitment to modernizing agricultural infrastructure and improving market access for Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.
The approved infrastructure projects, which include over 66 kilometers of farm-to-market roads and 310 linear meters of bridges, will be implemented in the provinces of Zambales, Oriental Mindoro, Masbate, Samar, Bukidnon, and North Cotabato. Among the projects is a road network extending as far as 26 kilometers, aimed at enhancing the efficient movement of agricultural products from production areas to markets.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the projects are expected to strengthen the country's agri-food supply chain, reduce transportation costs, and improve the livelihoods of farming and fishing communities.
"These projects are very crucial to our agri-food systems. They will improve the lives of farmers and fisherfolk by lowering their expenses and providing them with better access to markets," Tiu Laurel said.
He emphasized that bridge construction will have a particularly significant impact, replacing unsafe river crossings that often become impassable during heavy rains and severe weather, ensuring year-round mobility for rural communities.
The infrastructure initiatives will be financed primarily through the World Bank-supported Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP) Scale-Up, which continues to serve as one of the government's flagship programs for rural infrastructure development.
Secretary Tiu Laurel also expressed appreciation to the World Bank for its continued confidence in Philippine agriculture, noting the institution's interest in expanding its support as the PRDP Scale-Up continues to deliver positive results nationwide.
To further accelerate project implementation, the agriculture chief encouraged local government units (LGUs) to prepare and submit infrastructure proposals that comply with World Bank standards, enabling faster approval and execution of future projects.
Aside from farm-to-market roads and bridges, the PRDP Scale-Up infrastructure program also includes investments in irrigation systems and post-harvest facilities designed to increase agricultural productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance food security.
The DA said these infrastructure investments form part of the government's broader strategy to build a more resilient, efficient, and globally competitive Philippine agriculture sector while improving the quality of life in rural communities.
NPO NEWS TEAM | Source: Philippine News Agency (PNA) / Department of Agriculture
