DAR Opens P64-M Farm-to-Market Road Boosting Agriculture, Livelihoods in Abra
SALLAPADAN, Abra — Farmers and agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in this remote town are set to benefit from improved market access following the completion and turnover of a PHP63.8-million farm-to-market road (FMR) by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).
The newly inaugurated 1.85-kilometer Sallapadan Barrio–Ud-udiao concrete FMR, equipped with a box culvert and slope protection structures, was formally turned over by DAR–Abra in partnership with the local government unit (LGU) of Sallapadan, led by Mayor Fernando Semanero Jr.
DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II Lawyer Mercedes Borongan said the project is expected to significantly ease the transport of agricultural products, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve connectivity between upland farming areas and market centers.
“This farm-to-market road brings vital infrastructure closer to our agrarian reform beneficiaries. By improving access to markets and services, we enable farmers to increase productivity, lower transport costs, and improve their quality of life,” Borongan said in a statement released Monday.
Mayor Semanero highlighted the long-term economic impact of the project, noting that the road will strengthen inter-barangay connectivity and stimulate local trade.
“This project makes it easier and safer for our farmers to bring their produce to the market. It supports agricultural activities and contributes to the sustained growth of our local economy,” he said.
The FMR directly benefits 1,072 agrarian reform beneficiaries, including members of the Sallapadan Barrio Agriculture Cooperative and the UDNAMA Agriculture Credit Cooperative.
A cooperative officer, speaking on behalf of the ARBs, expressed gratitude for the completed road, citing its immediate impact on daily farming operations.
“Transporting our harvest used to be difficult and costly, especially during the rainy season. With this road, our produce now reaches the market faster and in better condition. This is a big help to our cooperative and our families,” the officer said.
The completion of the Sallapadan Barrio–Ud-udiao FMR underscores the government’s commitment to agricultural modernization and inclusive rural development, ensuring that infrastructure investments reach even the most geographically challenged communities.
DAR–Abra also acknowledged the continued support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III in advancing programs that uplift agrarian reform beneficiaries and strengthen rural economies.
NPO News Team | PNA – PR
