MindanaoToday.com | Bukidnon farmers empowered with new DA-built farm road
LANTAPAN, Bukidnon -Residents of Barangay Kulasihan in Lantapan town are celebrating a major upgrade as the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Rural Development Project 10 (DA-PRDP 10) officially opened on April 15 the new concrete farm-to-market road, stretching from Purok 3 to Purok 5.
The new road cuts travel time, making it easier for farmers to reach markets, get needed supplies, and improve access to essential services.
A new 6-kilometer road has allowed Barangay Kulasihan farmers to haul their goods to markets more quickly.
This P93.6 million project, funded by Additional Financing 2 and the European Union (AF2-EU), will help 1,341 households, including 1,244 farmers who cultivate high-value crops like vegetables, bananas, rubber, and other crops.
At the turnover ceremony, DA-PRDP 10 Project Director Carlene Collado lauded the Lantapan local government unit (LGU) for their successful collaboration in completing the new farm-to-market road.
“Acquiring a PRDP subproject is no easy task as we uphold a standard prioritizing quality. It marks the second PRDP completed project in this municipality,” he said.
Collado urged Lantapan LGU to enact a resolution for the road’s proper maintenance and regulations to guarantee its long-term benefits.
“Now that the project is complete, the focus shifts to preserving its quality. The Lantapan LGU and residents play a vital role in ensuring vehicles entering and leaving the area don’t damage the road. This will guarantee long-lasting gains,” he added.
Lantapan Mayor Ernie R. Devibar couldn’t hide his excitement about the project’s completion.
“This farm-to-market road will bring numerous opportunities to Kulasihan. I recall the challenges the Barangay previously faced, and now, look where we stand. None of this would have been possible without your dedication,” the mayor said.
Taking up DA-PRDP 10’s challenge, Devibar announced plans to convene a meeting to draft a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) outlining proper care and maintenance requirements. This collaborative effort will ensure the long-term quality and sustainability of the new road.
“The farm-to-market road’s turnover marks a major milestone for Lantapan. It is the final component of the rural development project in town,” Devibar said.
Additionally, Barangay Kulasihan farmers are adding value to their crops with its new P2.7 million project. Since February 2022, the Bugcaon Kulasihan Manupali Irrigators’ Association (BUKUMA) has been utilizing a facility for processing and marketing fermented dried cacao beans, funded through DA-PRDP’s Rural Enterprises and Agriculture and Fisheries Productivity subproject. (DA 10/PIA 10-Bukidnon)
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