Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday underscored the need for a better infrastructure to lower transport costs for farmers.

“Better infrastructure enables a more efficient supply chain, reducing costs from farm to market,” he said in a statement.

“Agriculture relies heavily on logistics, and transport infrastructure directly affects the cost and efficiency of moving farm inputs and produce.”

In particular, the DA will coordinate with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to upgrade roads and bridges for a “smooth flow” of agricultural products, particularly from major agricultural-producing areas, in line with the food security target of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Tiu Laurel said improved transport infrastructure will help prevent food spoilage and help stabilize local market prices benefitting consumers.

“The importance of a strong road and bridge network in agriculture, especially in an archipelago like the Philippines, cannot be overstated,” he said.

To date, transport infrastructure is challenged with “excessive overloading” of trucks as Filipino farmers and traders aim to cut logistics costs, posing damage to roads and bridges; as well as with the “weak” enforcement of regular inspections on bridges and load rating updates.

With better infrastructures, Tiu Laurel said the country may benefit from lower transport costs, like in other neighboring countries including Thailand and Vietnam.

He said agricultural trucks in Thailand and Vietnam may carry eight to 10 tons more than the 41-ton set limits in the Philippines. (PNA)