Davao: About PHP1.5 billion worth of farm-to-market road (FMR) projects, covering approximately 99.7 kilometers, has been allocated for the Davao Region in 2026, the Department of Agriculture-Davao (DA-11) said Wednesday. During the Regional Midyear Assessment of FMR Projects in Tagum, Davao del Norte, DA-11 Regional Director Macario Gonzaga stated that these projects aim to enhance agricultural connectivity and generate additional opportunities for farmers across the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gonzaga highlighted that for 2026, the region has received a significantly increased allocation. The allocation includes 17 projects in Davao de Oro, nine in Davao Oriental, nine in Davao del Sur, seven in Davao del Norte, four in Davao City, and two in Davao Occidental. Gonzaga emphasized that completed and planned projects show the government's ongoing support for farmers by improving market access, enhancing the delivery of agricultural products, and strengthening rural connectivity.

He also pointed out the need to periodically assess operations and progress, noting that the success of the FMR initiative depends on collective efforts of government partners, including the Department of Public Works and Highways, local government units, farmer-beneficiaries, and other stakeholders. 'Through these continued investments in rural infrastructure, the DA, through the Regional Agricultural Engineering Division, aims to reduce transportation challenges for farmers, improve the movement of agricultural products, and strengthen local food systems and food security across the region,' Gonzaga said.

According to DA records, 26 FMR projects were implemented across the region in 2025. Of these, 23 projects have been completed, while three are ongoing. The projects comprise 11 in Davao de Oro, four in Davao del Norte, four in Davao City, three in Davao Oriental, two in Davao Occidental, and two in Davao del Sur.