DTI turns over farm-to-market road to Hinatuan farmers in Surigao Sur
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
HINATUAN, Surigao del Sur (PIA) – The local government of Hinatuan underscored its unwavering support to farmers with the recent ceremonial turnover of the newly completed farm-to-market road (FMR) in Barangay Tagasaka.
Amid the vibrant celebration of Araw ng Hinatuan and the town’s Patronal Fiesta, the event showcased the signing of the Certificate of Turnover between the Department of Trade and Industry-Rural Agro-Industrial Partnership for Inclusive Development (DTI-RAPID) Program, in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), to the LGU of Hinatuan. A symbolic plaque was also handed over to Barangay Tagasaka and the Tagasaka Coconut Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (TACOFACO), marking a milestone for local farmers on August 22.
Punong Barangay Emmanuel Sina, representing the people of Tagasaka, described the project as a “dream come true” for farmers and nearby barangays. He emphasized the community’s duty to protect, maintain, and monitor the newly completed road, stressing that it will significantly ease farmers’ transport of local products to the market. Sina also revealed plans to enhance local ordinances to regulate the entry of heavy equipment–logging trucks, ensuring the sustainability of the project.
“On behalf of the Barangay Council and the people of Tagasaka, I wholeheartedly accept this farm-to-market road with the commitment to continuously monitor, maintain, and safeguard it toward long-term sustainability,” he said.
For TACOFACO Chairperson Arsolino S. Cabilin, the project represents the realization of long-awaited support for coconut farmers. “Pinaagi sa RAPID natupad na gayud an amo panginahanglan (Finally, through RAPID, it met our long-awaited needs).”
DTI Surigao del Sur Director Romel Oribe explained that of the 21 provinces covered by the RAPID program across seven regions, Hinatuan’s FMR is the first project completed in Surigao del Sur. He credited the collaboration of national agencies and the proactive efforts of the local government of Hinatuan in ensuring its timely implementation.
Also, Hinatuan Mayor Tito Canedo III, Vice Mayor Joan Garay, and TACOFACO members joined the celebration, reaffirming their shared responsibility to maximize the benefits of the road project for farmers, local enterprises, and the broader community.
The turnover of the Tagasaka FMR stands as a testament to government-community partnership, paving the way for improved agricultural productivity, stronger local enterprises, and inclusive growth for the people of Hinatuan. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur with a report from DTI-SDS)
