The Department of Agriculture in Northern Mindanao (DA-10) is set to take over farm-to-market road (FMR) projects from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), aiming for faster and more efficient implementation.
DA-10 Regional Director Jose Apollo Pacamalan announced this during a Media Connect on Dec. 17, emphasizing coordination with local government units (LGUs) for timely completion. LGUs will handle procurement, but DA-10 will step in if needed.
"We're ensuring the project is done on time," Pacamalan said.
DA-10 is strengthening its technical capacity, with over 69 engineers and hiring more staff.
A digital monitoring system will track project progress.
The agency will work with 5 provincial governments on ₱1.2 billion worth of FMR projects, covering 86 segments.
Weekly updates will ensure monitoring and timely intervention.
Farmers welcomed the move, saying it brings hope for improved road access.
"Dako nga kahayag, kay matagaan pa gyud mi ug dugang nga pagtagad isip mga mag-uuma," said Arthur Daumar, 65, a farmer from Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.
