The Department of Agriculture (DA) has earmarked an estimated P1.19 billion for the construction of 65 farm-to-market (FMR) road projects across Isabela, a move aimed at improving transportation links for farming communities and strengthening the province's agricultural sector.
The initiative was officially launched through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed on July 9, 2026, between DA Region 2 and the Provincial Government of Isabela. Under the partnership, the DA will cover the majority of the project's funding, while the provincial government will provide counterpart support for permits, clearances, right-of-way acquisition, preparation of the program of works, and other documentary requirements.
Provincial officials described the initiative as one of the largest agricultural infrastructure investments undertaken in Isabela in recent years. The road projects are expected to improve access in farming areas where poor road conditions have long made it difficult for producers to transport their harvests to markets.
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Road Projects Expected to Improve Market Access
Officials from DA Region 2, led by Executive Director Mary Rose Aquino, said the planned road network is expected to shorten travel time, reduce transportation expenses, and help farmers deliver agricultural products to buyers in better condition.
“These roads are vital in moving agricultural products from farms to markets,” Aquino said during the MOA signing. “With better access, we can reduce post-harvest losses, lower costs, and improve the income of thousands of farming families.”
Recognized as one of the country's leading producers of corn, rice, and high-value crops, Isabela continues to face logistical challenges in several farming communities, particularly during the rainy season when poor road conditions can leave production areas isolated. As a result, many farmers are often compelled to sell their produce at lower prices to traders who are able to reach remote locations.
The 65 farm-to-market road projects are expected to benefit thousands of farmers in municipalities across the province by connecting agricultural production areas to national highways, trading centers, and processing facilities.
Boosting Rural Development and Disaster Resilience
The Provincial Government of Isabela welcomed the collaboration, noting that its counterpart funding will help accelerate project implementation while ensuring compliance with government requirements.
Aside from improving transportation, local officials said the road network will enhance the province's disaster preparedness by providing alternative routes for relief operations and the delivery of agricultural inputs during emergencies.
The infrastructure projects are also expected to encourage investments in agri-enterprises while expanding farmers' access to agricultural services, financing, and modern farming technologies, helping strengthen rural livelihoods over the long term.
Aquino said construction of the 65 projects will begin once all documentary requirements have been completed.
“The agency and the provincial government are targeting to start construction within the year.”
For farming communities in Isabela, improved road connectivity can make it easier to transport crops efficiently, reduce production costs, and increase access to larger markets. Beyond benefiting local farmers, the investment supports the country's food supply chain by helping agricultural products reach consumers more quickly, contributing to stronger rural economies and improved food security nationwide.
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