The construction of a PHP45-million farm-to-market road (FMR) in Barangay Sibawan commenced Tuesday, a project expected to benefit hundreds of farmers in the area.

Spanning 3.34 kilometers, the project is funded under the Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP) and is set for completion in 270 calendar days.

The ceremonial groundbreaking on Monday was led by Department of Agriculture (DA) 12 Regional Agricultural Engineering Division Chief engineer Jocelyn Torres and Mayor Jose Paolo Evangelista.

Barangay Sibawan Chairman Roger Toledo highlighted the road’s impact on local farmers, saying it will help at least 300 farmers transport their produce more efficiently, ensuring freshness and fair pricing.

“They can now traverse their farm products timely to the awaiting buyers and market, which is key to earning justifiable payment,” Toledo said.

Evangelista underscored the local government’s commitment to ongoing consultations with the farming community to implement practical and sustainable solutions for agricultural development.

Currently, rough roads make it difficult for farmers to transport their goods, often leading to higher transportation costs.

The new road aims to address this issue and enhance economic opportunities in the area. (PNA)