The improved 4.577-kilometer Banata-Sumey-ang-Sadsadan farm-to-market road (FMR) in Bauko, Mountain Province implemented under the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) was finally inaugurated and turned over to the provincial government of Mountain Province on November 16, 2021.
The road project covering barangay Mabaay and Sadsadan, has a total cost of PhP71.28 million, which is shared by the World Bank (Loan Proceeds), the DA, and the provincial government.
During the turnover program, Mountain Province Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan Jr. expressed his gratitude to the DA-PRDP, the provincial technical staff, and the barangay officials for overseeing the implementation and completion of the road improvement.
“Without your collective efforts and the cooperation of the community, this road project will not be successfully completed,” Gov. Lacwasan said.
DA-CAR OIC-Regional Executive Director Cameron P. Odsey stressed the relevance of balancing the protection of watersheds in developing and expanding production areas for the sustainability of agriculture.
“While we will continue our efforts as your partners in agricultural development, we also expect that you will continue sustaining and evolving good natural resources management practices,” Director Odsey expressed.
Additionally, the Director also urged the residents to improve and expand their coffee production now that the road is improved.
In support to the local coffee industry in Bauko, the FMR subproject was originally proposed with a span of 8.483 kilometers. However, the length was shortened due to road-right-of-way issues. Construction works officially started in March 2017, but the subproject underwent several challenges until it was finally completed last October 6, 2021.
Mabaay Punong barangay Melecio Paltiyan also expressed his gratitude for the road improvement as the community now experiences a smooth ride to and from their residences/farms.
“Sapay kuma ta matago-tago taku tapnu itultuloy tayo nga mang improve kasin nan problema sin umili (may we all live long so that we can continue to improve/resolve the challenges being experienced by our communities),” Paltiyan said.
To date, the improved road is now benefiting farmers and residents from various barangays of Bauko and Tadian as it also serves as an alternate route connecting several towns. Likewise, the improved road is expected to develop the local coffee industry in the municipality, facilitate the delivery of farm produce, and provide better access to farmers and residents. By Elvy T. Estacio