Butuan city: A new PHP106.93-million farm-to-market road will benefit 2,293 residents, mostly farmers, in Marihatag, Surigao del Sur, following a newly signed agreement for the 3.65-kilometer project. The Department of Agriculture-Caraga (DA-13) and the local government signed the Implementation Management Agreement (IMA) on Wednesday in Butuan City to launch procurement.

According to Philippines News Agency, the road will be built under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP), a flagship program of the DA aiming to modernize rural infrastructure. "The IMA outlines the duties and responsibilities of both DA-PRDP and the local government unit of Marihatag as procurement begins," DA-13 said in a statement Thursday. Officials noted the new road will connect the barangays of Bayan and San Isidro, improving access for farmers and residents.

In a separate statement, the Marihatag local government unit (LGU) described the project as a vital investment in rural infrastructure designed to enhance accessibility and spur local development. "Once completed, the concreted FMR will provide a reliable transport link, ensuring smoother delivery of farm products, reducing travel time, and opening greater opportunities for industry and trade," the LGU said.

DA-13 added that following the IMA signing, the next steps include issuing a Certificate of Fund Availability, releasing No Objection Letter 2, and awarding the project contract.