PUDTOL, Apayao – Farmers in Pudtol will soon benefit from a long-awaited road improvement that promises better access to markets and transportation.
Gov. Elias C. Bulut, Jr. and Apayao Lone District Representative Cong. Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang led the groundbreaking ceremony on February 10 for the Cabatacan-San Mariano-San Jose farm-to-market road (FMR), a 5.55-kilometer road project aimed at easing access for farmers moving rice, corn, bananas, coconuts, and other produce.
Funded 80% through the national government’s Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) and a 10% counterpart funding from both the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the provincial government, the PhP145.6 million road project is part of the Provincial Commodity Investment Plan (PCIP). This was originally proposed 6 years ago but it underwent budget adjustments to meet construction requirements.
The 420-day construction period will replace the existing unpaved road with a World Bank–standard roadway, and is expected to lower transport costs, strengthen market links, and support economic growth. It is the province’s second PRDP FMR.
“This project is significant for barangays Cabatacan, San Mariano, and San Jose, as it will benefit residents, especially the farmers. While it will initially serve as a FMR, the long-term vision is for it to become a part of the national road network,” said Gov. Bulut.
The governor likewise underscored the project’s role in disaster resilience and efficient funding. “This will open access to areas less prone to flooding. We are maximizing government resources including provincial counterpart funding to make this project a success,” he added.
“The road to development is the road itself,” echoed Rep. Bulut-Begtang.
With construction now underway, provincial and municipal officials anticipate improvements in connectivity and mobility for farmers and residents of the three barangays of Pudtol. By Diocen Tolentino
