The President’s economic team considers farm-to-market roads (FMRs) as game changers for the agriculture sector, despite not having any FMRs in the list of 75 flagship projects, according to Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia.
Pernia, who is also director general of the National Economic and Development Authority, told the BusinessMirror on Wednesday that FMRs have been included in the “Build, Build, Build” program.
He said the economic team considers FMRs as important components of the government’s infrastructure initiative, particularly in the development of the farm sector.
“[FMRs are important game changers for the agriculture sector] besides irrigation, mechanization, better seeds, competent extension workers, etc.,” Pernia said.
The Neda chief said cost is the only reason for the noninclusion of FMRs in the list of flagship projects. To be considered a “flagship project,” Pernia said it should cost a minimum of P2.5 billion.
Pernia said earlier that the government’s infrastructure initiative does not revolve around the flagship projects.
He also said the country’s Public Investment Program (PIP) under the Duterte administration contains over 4,000 projects that will be financed in the medium term.
Under Chapter 8 of the PIP 2017-2022, the government will spend P682.39 billion for projects that seek to expand economic opportunities in agriculture, forestry and fisheries.
These projects include the P550-million community development project of the Department of Agriculture (DA) in conflict affected areas in Mindanao. It aims to construct and rehabilitate FMRs in three sites in Mindanao.
The construction and rehabilitation of FMRs, the PIP stated, will improve the transport of agricultural products and increase in job opportunity for local farmers.
“Roads to be constructed shall meet standard specification in Japanese Grant aid with consideration of national geographic and social condition,” the PIP read. The project is being funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
The list of projects includes the DA’s Rural Development Project for Multiple Industry Zone in the Philippines. The project, which will cost P119.19 million, will be funded by the Korean government.
The project aims to construct FMRs as well as a solar and mechanical dryer; multipurpose covered court; small-scale water supply; promotion of the use of Korean greenhouse technology; and capacity building activities in the form of local and international training.