The Provincial Development Council (PDC) has officially endorsed a significant P12 billion farm-to-market road program for Negros Occidental. This decision was made during a meeting on May 22, as part of discussions surrounding the province's Annual Investment Plan (AIP) for 2027.
Cadiz City Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. revealed that the proposal, which is championed by the Department of Agriculture, will be forwarded to the Regional Development Council (RDC) for further approval.
All local government units (LGUs) across Negros Occidental will benefit from the planned projects, which have been identified through studies by the Department of Agriculture. Escalante emphasized that the AIP represents the collective aspirations of each LGU, with strong support from the PDC.
For me, the only way to modernize and maximize agricultural production is if there are good access roads. If there is a good road, more technicians and government support services can reach the area. But if roads are bad, people are no longer interested to work there.
Salvador Escalante Jr., Mayor of Cadiz City
The proposed funding is dedicated solely to Negros Occidental and aims to improve access in agricultural and hinterland communities. This is seen as vital for boosting productivity and encouraging rural development.
Escalante also noted that the Negros Association of Chief Executives (ACE) will convene to pass a resolution supporting the Department of Agriculture's initiatives. He stressed the critical role of infrastructure in transforming rural areas and enhancing the agricultural landscape.
- P12 billion investment for farm-to-market roads
- Endorsement by the Provincial Development Council
- Support from the Department of Agriculture
- Inclusion of all local government units