The small town of Talayan in Maguindanao del Sur is celebrating a significant milestone with the completion of a PHP199.2-million farm-to-market road (FMR) in Barangay Lanting.
This 9.46-kilometer stretch, which includes two new bridges connecting Barangays Tamar, Marader, Lanting, and Fukol, was funded by the World Bank. For the farmers and residents of Talayan, this new infrastructure is more than just a road; it represents a transformative lifeline that promises to enhance daily life and drive prosperity.
Previously, high water levels often turned market trips into arduous 24-hour journeys. Haron Kadatuan, the chairperson of Barangay Lanting, shared how this new development has revolutionized their daily routines: "Before, crossing the road to the market could take 24 hours when the water was high. Now, with the new road and bridges, we can transport our goods efficiently and affordably."
A Boost for Local Agriculture
Minister Mohammad Yacob of the BARMM’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) highlighted the road's critical role in advancing regional agriculture.
"The FMR is crucial for agricultural development. It boosts productivity and facilitates the movement of products, complemented by support in inputs, machinery, and other resources to encourage farming activities," Yacob stated.
As Director of the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Regional Project Coordination Office-BARMM, he views this road as a cornerstone in a broader initiative to support and elevate local farming communities.
With the FMR officially handed over to town officials on August 19, the community's enthusiasm is evident. However, the long-term success of the project depends on local stewardship. By collaboratively maintaining the road, the residents of Talayan can ensure that the project continues to yield positive outcomes—improved access, increased income, and a stronger local economy—for years to come.
