Just days before Christmas, the province of Davao Oriental received a significant gift: the approval of a P277-million farm-to-market road project. This vital infrastructure will connect Barangay Mainit in Cateel to Purok Bukobuko in Boston, bringing hope and progress to the region.
Governor Niño Uy led the defense of this ambitious project during the Regional Project Advisory Board Review and Deliberation held in Davao City on December 23, 2024. During the session, program executives meticulously examined the proposal to ensure smooth implementation in all aspects.
Funded under the Philippine Rural Development Program-Scale Up by the Department of Agriculture in partnership with the World Bank, the project spans 8.6 kilometers and includes two bridge components. It is expected to benefit over 4,000 residents, or more than 1,000 households, primarily composed of farmers.
Key Benefits
Beyond facilitating faster transportation of farmers’ produce to markets, the project is set to:
- Reduce hauling costs.
- Enhance the quality of agricultural products.
- Provide additional livelihood opportunities during the construction phase.
With the inclusion of bridge components, residents will no longer face the risks of crossing the Manat River, particularly during floods or high water levels.
Governor Uy, alongside Cateel Mayor Emilou Nuñez and Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) head Freddie Bendulo, expressed profound gratitude. “This project exemplifies genuine collaboration between local and national governments for the betterment of our people,” Uy stated.
Mayor Nuñez echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the transformative impact of the initiative: “This road is more than just infrastructure—it’s a promise. A promise to improve lives by making it easier for our farmers to bring their produce to markets, for residents to access vital services, and for visitors to explore the beauty of Barangay Mainit, known for its hot springs.”
Looking Ahead
Implementation of the project is set to begin early next year, 2025, with completion expected within the designated timeline. Once operational, the road is anticipated to bring renewed hope and vigor to the communities of Cateel and Boston, particularly the hardworking farmers who have long sought better transportation and market access.
This development heralds a brighter future for Davao Oriental, underscoring the power of infrastructure to drive progress and improve lives.
