DA, DPWH to construct P71 million farm-to-market roads in Tarlac

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to construct P71.5 million worth of farm-to-market roads in Tarlac. This collaboration will encompass four projects spanning a combined total of 5.43 kilometers.

Funding for these projects is sourced from the 2026 Farm-to-Market Road Development Program. The construction will involve paving roads in Barangays Balutu, Santiago, and Castillo, as well as building roads connecting Balutu and Panalicsican. The DPWH will oversee the bidding process for these ventures.

The Balutu road project will see the concreting of a 1.16-kilometer stretch, costing P14.89 million. The Santiago project entails a 1.51-kilometer road with a budget of P21.89 million. The Castillo project extends over 1.56 kilometers and is funded at P19.85 million. Meanwhile, the Balutu-Panalicsican project covers 1.21 kilometers and is estimated to cost P14.89 million.

Under this agreement, the DA will set road standards, review engineering designs and work plans, release and monitor funds, and track progress. Conversely, the DPWH will manage procurement, contract awards, construction oversight, quality control, and contractor adherence. To maintain strict financial controls, a No Objection Letter from the DA is required before any procurement can commence. Moreover, project sites must undergo joint validation and geotagging.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. expressed optimism about the project, stating that improved farm-to-market roads will enable farmers to reach buyers more efficiently and alleviate transport constraints that could negatively impact product prices. The Secretary highlighted the significance of swift completion of these projects so farmers can transport their goods to markets more effectively. Under the 2026 national spending plan, the DA has been allocated P33 billion for farm-to-market road projects.