By Kenneth Marcos 
Early in the morning, farmers in Zamboanga del Sur load their harvest onto small trucks and motorcycles, hoping the roads will hold until they reach the market. For many, rough and muddy paths mean higher costs, spoiled produce, and lower income. This daily struggle is now at the center of a new push by the national government to improve farm-to-market access in the province.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has expressed support for the request of Zamboanga del Sur Governor Divina Grace Yu to partner with the Department of Agriculture (DA) in implementing farm-to-market road (FMR) projects across the province. The proposed partnership aims to strengthen road infrastructure connecting farms to trading centers, towns, and major highways in Mindanao.
According to the DA, farm-to-market roads are a key part of the government’s plan to raise farmers’ incomes and reduce post-harvest losses. Poor road conditions often delay deliveries, increase transport costs, and damage crops such as rice, corn, rubber, coconut, and high-value vegetables. These problems affect not only farmers but also consumers who face higher food prices.
Secretary Tiu Laurel said the DA is ready to work closely with the provincial government to identify priority areas where roads are most needed. By coordinating planning, funding, and implementation, both sides aim to ensure that projects are completed faster and benefit more communities. The DA has ongoing FMR programs nationwide, especially in food-producing provinces, as part of the administration’s food security agenda.
Governor Yu welcomed the support, saying improved roads will help unlock the full agricultural potential of Zamboanga del Sur. The province is known for its vast farmlands and diverse crops, but many interior barangays remain difficult to reach, especially during the rainy season. Better roads would allow farmers to bring their produce to market on time and attract traders and investors to rural areas.
Farm-to-market roads also play a role beyond agriculture. They improve access to schools, health centers, and emergency services. For rural families, a paved and reliable road can mean safer travel, more job opportunities, and stronger local economies. Studies have shown that areas with good farm roads often see higher productivity and reduced poverty levels.
In Mindanao, where agriculture employs a large share of the population, infrastructure remains a major challenge. The DA has repeatedly stressed that improving logistics is just as important as providing seeds, fertilizers, and training. Without reliable roads, government support cannot fully reach farmers, and the benefits of modern farming practices are limited.
The proposed partnership in Zamboanga del Sur is expected to follow existing guidelines for FMR projects, including proper planning, transparency, and community involvement. Local governments usually help identify road alignments and ensure maintenance, while the DA provides technical support and funding assistance.
As discussions move forward, farmers in the province are hopeful that long-promised roads will finally take shape. For them, smoother paths mean more than convenience. They mean fairer prices, less waste, and a better chance to support their families through honest farm work.
The DA said it remains committed to working with local governments to build infrastructure that supports food production and rural development. For Zamboanga del Sur, the partnership could mark a meaningful step toward stronger agriculture and more inclusive growth.
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