The Department of Agriculture (DA) is urging congressional support for the proposed Farm-to-Market Roads Development and Equity Act that aims to create a more transparent, equitable, and programmatic framework for FMR investments nationwide.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. underscored that FMRs are not just infrastructures—they are essential lifelines that connect farmers, fisherfolk, and livestock producers to markets and economic opportunity.
“Every kilometer of FMR we build is a pathway out of poverty for rural communities. But with a staggering 36,000-kilometer backlog, we need a comprehensive, fair, and sustainable approach. This bill delivers that,” Secretary Tiu Laurel said.
As envisaged in the legislative proposal, at least 30 percent of FMR funds under the proposed measure will be earmarked for rural areas with high poverty incidence. The balance will be directed toward key regional growth corridors identified by the Department of Economy, Planning and Development and the Regional Development Councils.
Additional priorities include major commodity production zones under the DA’s agricultural modernization plan, fisheries development areas designated by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, livestock clusters under the National Livestock Program, and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), such as upland barangays and island municipalities.
“This is about ensuring no farmer or fisherfolk is left behind just because of where they live,” Secretary Tiu Laurel stressed.
To systematically address the 36,000-kilometer shortfall, the DA is proposing a Farm-to-Market Road Masterplan anchored in six-year rolling implementation cycles.
The plan will align with the country’s medium-term development strategies and ensure full coordination between DA-Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering for planning, the Department of Public Works and Highways for construction, and local government units for integration on the ground.
A National FMR Dashboard will also be established to provide real-time monitoring and promote transparency. Well-planned and properly implemented FMRs are expected to lower food prices, reduce post-harvest losses, raise farmer and fisherfolk incomes, address peace and order issues, and improve overall connectivity for remote and underserved communities.
“Farm-to-market roads are the backbone of food security. They bring down costs for consumers, boost earnings for producers, and unlock growth across rural economies,” Secretary Tiu Laurel said.
The DA is calling on both chambers of Congress to prioritize the measure, underscoring that rural infrastructure is fundamental to agricultural modernization, poverty alleviation, and inclusive national growth.
“We cannot leave our farmers and fisherfolk stranded at the farm gate. This legislation lays not just physical roads, but a stronger foundation for food security, equity, and national development,” the Secretary concluded.
