Lanao del sur: The Department of Agriculture (DA) clarified on Thursday that earlier reports of 'ghost' farm-to-market road (FMR) projects in Lanao del Sur were incorrect, as the projects were confirmed to exist after a thorough validation process. This development follows a joint effort by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the DA regional field office to submit a comprehensive report amidst a stringent audit and a parallel government investigation into alleged ghost flood control projects.

According to Philippines News Agency, Agriculture spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa stated in an ambush interview during the 47th Meeting of the ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry that, although initially reported as potential 'ghost' projects, evidence was presented confirming the existence of the road projects in Lanao del Sur. However, De Mesa maintained that seven FMRs initially flagged in Davao Occidental are still 'most likely ghosts.'

These projects have been reported to the Office of the President and the DPWH. De Mesa revealed that the contractors involved, predominantly DISEM Construction, were implicated in three alleged ghost projects in the area. The DA's report indicated that these FMR projects in question were valued at approximately PHP105 million, purportedly completed between 2021 and 2023, yet they remain unfinished.

Of the total 4,700 FMR projects, close to 3,000 have been validated as completed. The DA has committed to stringent monitoring of the country's FMR projects, having secured a joint administrative order (JAO) with the DPWH to ensure proper implementation. De Mesa highlighted instances where payments were expedited, with only the DPWH signatures, bypassing the necessary DA approval.

Under the new JAO, full payment for FMR projects is contingent upon the completion of a joint monitoring process by both the DA and DPWH, ensuring more rigorous oversight and accountability.