Farmers, Fisherfolk of Barangay Labungan to benefit from 4.6 km FMR

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform, through Special Development Fund (SDF), broke ground for the Concreting of a 4.6 km Farm-to-Market-Road in Barangay Labungan, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

On October 14, Director II for Agriculture Services Engr. Ismail A. Guiamel said the project is worth Php69,492,196.6, funded under SDF, to be completed on or before Oct. 27, 2023, or within 378 calendar days.

Director Guiamel also emphasized the benefits of FMR to the farmers and residents of the said town, such as easy access to their farm products, low transportation cost, and increased profits, which eventually could alleviate their living conditions.

Minister Mohammad S. Yacob, Ph.D., said the 4.6 km Farm-to-market roads (FMRs) would connect agricultural and fisheries areas to markets, allowing producers to transport their goods to traders and consumers relatively easily.

“These roads help the farmers and fisher folks gain better prices and broader reach for their products. FMRs also stimulate the economy and empower rural communities,” said Yacob.

Moreover, present during the ceremony were Barangay Captain of Labungan Morad Campong, Haidar Yacob, on behalf of MAFAR Minister, head of SDF- PMO Operation Unit Rohanisha Rashid, MAFAR-SDF staff Engr. Ghalia Darping, Chief of MAFAR-Engineering Section Engr. Ashnairah A. Abdullah, MAFAR Maguindanao Chief Agriculturist Saudi Manguindra, OIC-MMO of Datu Odin Sinsuat Engr. Fahmi Acob and MAFAR staff.