The Department of Agriculture (DA) 11 (Davao Region) has outlined a proposed budget of PHP144.2 million for Davao Occidental’s agricultural programs in 2025, an official announced Thursday.

Marie Ann Constantino, DA-11’s technical director for operations, said PHP90 million is earmarked for the farm-to-market road development program, PHP17.83 million for the livestock program, PHP12.81 million for the corn program, and PHP11.22 million for the Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) Program.

Other allocations are PHP7.03 million for the high-value crops development program, PHP2.87 million for the rice program, PHP2.29 million for the Kabuhayan at Kaunlaran ng Kababayang Katutubo (4K) Program, and PHP150,000 for the Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture Program.

“These projects are time-sensitive, and we must remain vigilant in monitoring schedules and progress. Having a clear timeline is essential, and we need to be ready to implement when needed,” Constantino said in a statement.

The proposed budget is under review by the Senate and House of Representatives.

Constantino also emphasized the importance of aligning all project reports with strategic plans and developing a cohesive regional strategy to maximize the impact of the funding. (PNA)