Bayugan City: Village leaders in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, hailed the completion of a new farm-to-market road (FMR) that will connect their barangays to the province’s market centers, benefiting over 2,800 rubber farmers. The 4.7-km. Bucac-Marcelina FMR, with a budget of PHP59 million, was officially handed over to barangays San Isidro, Burac, and Marcelina on Feb. 7.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Agriculture in Caraga Region (DA-13) implemented the project under the Philippine Rural Development Project. This development aims to ease travel difficulties and improve market access for villagers. Barangay Captain Therese Baslan of San Isidro expressed optimism, stating, “This completed project symbolizes progress and hope for our village.” She highlighted that the FMR will primarily benefit rubber farmers by facilitating the transport of their products to market centers.
Ni±o Cagampang, the village chief of Marcelina, noted that the FMR will eliminate past hardships and open new market opportunities for farmers. Both officials extended their gratitude to the government for realizing the long-standing dream of their residents.
DA-13 Executive Director Arlan Mangelen acknowledged the support of local government units, the World Bank, and the European Union in completing the project. He stated, “The mandate of the DA is to ensure regional food security. We want to achieve these goals with our stakeholders.”
The FMR is expected to serve 2,872 farmers from the three barangays, enhancing their livelihoods and boosting the local economy.