MANILA (November 1) – The government is turning a new page in rural infrastructure as the Department of Agriculture (DA) takes over the construction of farm-to-market roads (FMRs) from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) starting next year.
The move follows corruption probes into DPWH projects and is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to make infrastructure delivery faster, cheaper, and more accountable.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the turnover aims to ensure that roads crucial to farmers and fisherfolk are built “with purpose and urgency.”
“These roads are badly needed. They lower production costs and give farmers more time with their families,” Tiu Laurel said.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said both agencies are implementing a catch-up plan to finish about 1,000 kilometers of FMRs by 2025 before the handover. Local governments will also be more involved to speed up completion.
The DA is exploring new construction technologies and partnerships with the Armed Forces of the Philippines for roadworks in remote and conflict-affected areas.
Audits of past DPWH projects have revealed irregularities in a few segments, now under review for possible charges.
“These are small stretches, but accountability must still be enforced,” Dizon said.
