Bridging Progress: P313-Million Farm-to-Market Road Project Underway in Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur | People’s Press PH

By Sherman Calotes | Philippine People's Press 

Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur – After more than 30 years of anticipation, the dream of a concrete and accessible road network for residents of the 2nd District of Zamboanga del Sur has finally begun to take shape.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Thursday in Barangay Singclot, Guipos to mark the official start of the ₱313-million Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) Project, under the Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP).

The ambitious infrastructure will span a total of 11.5 kilometers, linking the remote barangays of Singclot, Sagacad, Dongos, and Old Mirapao. The project includes not only the paving of roads but also the construction of a bridge, which is expected to greatly improve the transportation of goods and people in the area.

Present during the momentous occasion were Zamboanga del Sur Governor Victor J. Yu, Guipos Mayor Eleazer Y. Asoy, former Guipos Mayor Jun Oraiz, former Vice Mayor Junevelle Lami-ing, and DA Regional Executive Director and RPCO-9 Project Director Engr. Marcos C. Aves Sr. Local barangay officials and residents also gathered to witness the historic milestone.

For residents, particularly in Barangay Dongos, the start of the project is a long-awaited answer to their prayers. The lack of a bridge and decent roads has long made travel difficult and hazardous especially during the rainy season when crossing rivers and muddy terrains posed significant risks.

“This is not just about building roads; it’s about opening up opportunities,” said Gov. Yu in his address. “This project is a testament to our continued commitment to deliver genuine public service even to the most remote communities in the province.”

Once completed, the FMR is expected to accelerate the transport of agricultural produce, enhance economic activities, and improve access to basic services. Farmers will no longer struggle to bring their products to the market, and residents will benefit from reduced travel time and increased safety.

The project is seen as a crucial step towards rural development and inclusive progress for the hinterland barangays of Zamboanga del Sur.

Construction is scheduled to begin immediately following the groundbreaking, with completion eyed within the projected timeline set by the DA-PRDP. The community remains hopeful and enthusiastic that this development will usher in a new era of growth and prosperity for the region.