PUDTOL, Apayao – Three farming communities in Pudtol, Apayao will soon benefit from a ₱146-million farm-to market road (FMR) subproject under the Department of Agriculture–Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) Scale-Up.
On February 10, 2025, Apayao Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr., alongside District Representative Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang and DA-PRDP Regional Project Coordination Office (RPCO) CAR I-BUILD Component Head Engr. Gaston B. Cael, led the groundbreaking ceremony for the improvement of Cabatacan-San Mariano-San Jose FMR.
The 5.55-kilometer road project is expected to enhance agricultural productivity and connectivity in the province, benefiting 502 households or 2,508 individuals (1,339 female & 1,169 male) in the area.
Governor Bulut pointed out the importance of the FMR subproject, which covers barangays Cabatacan, San Mariano, and San Jose. He emphasized that the road improvement will provide easier transport of agricultural products from the barangays to the municipal and provincial markets. Additionally, the subproject is expected to spur provincial tourism and will open opportunities for land owners to utilize their idle lands.
“We acknowledge the development support that the DA provided to the municipality of Pudtol identified as the beneficiary for this FMR project. In return, the provincial government will maximize government funds as its counterpart in the creation of this project benefiting our farmers,” Gov. Bulut said.
He further highlighted that the road improvement is part of a broader strategy for provincial development, enhancing not only the local economy but also the overall growth of Apayao.
Aside from its counterpart for the project, the provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting farmers in the region, particularly those engaged in rice, corn, banana, and other fruit tree cultivation.
Meanwhile, Cael assured stakeholders of the department’s dedication to adhering to the subproject’s timeline and specifications.
“We are committed to ensuring that the implementation of this FMR subproject follows the approved schedule and plan, bringing tangible benefits to the farming communities of Pudtol,” Engr. Cael stated.
The ₱146-million FMR subproject is expected to be completed in 420 days, marking a significant milestone in the province’s ongoing efforts to uplift its agricultural sector and rural economy. By Jonathan Llanes
