Sultan Kudarat: The Department of Public Works and Highways in Soccsksargen (DPWH-12) announced Tuesday the completion of PHP91.9 million worth of infrastructure projects in North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces, aimed at enhancing public safety and convenience. In a statement, DPWH-12 Director Basir M. Ibrahim said a PHP77-million flood control project in Barangay Poblacion, Banisilan, North Cotabato, was turned over to local officials on Monday. The riverbank structure is designed to protect communities and agricultural areas from flooding caused by heavy rainfall. 'I hope this will help lessen the impact of natural disasters on our farmers and boost their productivity and income,' Ibrahim said.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ibrahim announced the completion of a PHP14.9-million road paving project under Phase 2 of the Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) development in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat. The project, which spans from Purok Neemtree to Sitio Biao in Barangay Milbuk, addresses the challenges posed by the previously muddy and unpaved road, which hindered motorists, farmers, and traders transporting agricultural products to the town center. 'Now that the project has been completed and turned over to the local government, smoother and safer transportation is ensured, benefiting farmers, residents, and local businesses,' Ibrahim added.

Sultan Kudarat 2nd District Engineer Elpidio Birog, in a separate statement, highlighted features of the road project, including solar-powered streetlights for improved nighttime visibility, kilometer posts for navigation, and pipe culverts for better drainage. 'The infrastructure enhances accessibility and economic mobility, allowing local farmers to transport their goods more efficiently to distributors and consumers in Palimbang's town center,' Birog said.