New roads leading to market boost Albay farm products

By Sally Atento-Altea

LEGAZPI CITY, Albay --- Farmers and residents from five upland barangays in Polangui, Albay, are now enjoying improved market access and faster, safer transportation following the completion of new farm-to-market roads funded by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR).

The road projects benefit around 7,400 residents and 473 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs), who are engaged in cultivating coconut, corn, sugarcane, and vegetables, the department has said.

A 2.76-kilometer concrete road now connects Barangays Pintor, Kinuartelan, and La Purisima, while another 1.5-kilometer road links Barangays Lourdes and Lanigay.

The P150-million road projects, financed through the Agrarian Reform Fund, have recently been handed over to local officials and ARBs.

Before the improvements, farmers faced challenges transporting their produce along muddy and rugged roads, especially during the rainy season.

This often led to longer travel times, increased hauling costs, and frequent damage to their products.

“Before, vehicles couldn’t even get into our area. The mud was really bad, especially when it rained. But now, the roads are great! We can easily bring our products like rice and copra to town,” said Jemlie Bobis, an ARB and barangay captain of Lourdes.

“That’s why we’re really thankful to DAR, especially to Secretary Estrella and, of course, to President Bongbong Marcos,” he added.

Jose Velarde Jr., farmer and barangay captain of Kinuartelan, said the new road has helped eased their burden.

“The roads are now in good condition, and it’s much easier for farmers to transport their products. Before, by the time we got to town, our goods were already bruised. Now, we’re able to save on transportation costs,” he said.

In addition to enhancing market access, the roads are anticipated to stimulate local economic growth and improve access to basic services.

“This project doesn’t just make things more convenient—it’s also a huge opportunity for our community to grow faster,” said Myrna S. Sanorjo, barangay captain of Pintor.

“Emergency services can now respond more quickly, and it shows that when we work together, nothing is impossible. This project is a win for all of us.”

Von Mark Mendoza, the director of the DAR Central Office Project Management Service, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting agrarian reform communities through infrastructure and various support services.

“DAR will always be there to strengthen our support service programs,’” Mendoza said, expressing gratitude to the municipal and barangay officials for their cooperation.

He added that the newly completed farm-to-market roads are expected to boost productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve the overall quality of life for farmers and their families in Polangui’s upland communities. (PIA Bicol/Albay)