By Kenneth Marcos 
Koronadal City — The hum of planning filled the DA-RFO XII office as local officials and agricultural experts gathered for a two-day consultation on January 14–15, 2026. The discussions focused on improving Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) projects in Region XII, aiming to help farmers transport their crops more efficiently and connect rural communities to local markets.
The event was led by OIC-Regional Executive Director Dr. John B. Pascual and organized by the Regional Agricultural Engineering Division (RAED) in partnership with the Bureau of Agricultural and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE) under Director Engr. Cristy Cecilia P. Polido. Representatives from municipalities, provinces, and local government units attended to discuss project guidelines, coordination strategies, and implementation plans.
“Farm-to-Market Roads are more than infrastructure—they are lifelines for farmers. They allow produce to reach markets faster, reduce spoilage, and help rural families earn more,” said Engr. Polido.
During the consultations, participants identified priority road projects, reviewed technical and policy requirements, and explored ways to strengthen cooperation between DA-RFO XII and local governments. These roads are expected to improve farm productivity, lower transportation costs, and support sustainable rural development.
Officials emphasized the importance of transparent coordination and consistent monitoring to ensure projects are delivered on time and meet community needs. The consultation also set the stage for updates to the regional FMR network plan, which guides the selection of future road projects based on impact, accessibility, and urgency.
With the strengthened plans and cooperation, farmers in South Cotabato and neighboring provinces can look forward to safer, faster, and more reliable access to markets, helping communities thrive while supporting the region’s agricultural growth.
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