The ongoing improvement of Km. 49-Ambakian Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) in Benguet notches up to 95.2% completion rate as of August 11, 2022.

Implemented under the Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) and the Provincial Local Government of Benguet, the 10.87-kilometer road project, with a total cost of PhP275 million is now serving more than 6,352 individuals from barangay Paoay, Atok and barangay Batan, Kabayan.

It was proposed to support the production and transport of coffee, highland vegetables, and other agricultural products produced by farmers in these communities.

Gaspar Cato, a resident of sitio Bajen, barangay Batan shared that vehicles that deliver vegetables usually get stuck on the way especially during the rainy season. But with the improved road, the motorists and residents are now at ease as they travel to and from Batan.

“Mayaten ti kalsada mi tadta ta nasimenton. Nu idi ket duwa oras ti byahe, sumurok pay nu ma-stuckan ka idjay dalan, ngem tadta ket makadanon kan idjay Sayangan (highway) in 45 minutes from Bajen,” expressed Cato.

(We now have a good road because it is concreted. We used to travel for two hours, or more if we get stuck on the way, but we can now reach Sayangan (highway) in 45 minutes from Bajen.)

Remaining works include the construction and repair of slope protection structures and clearing of landslides due to the recent earthquake incident.

The subproject is expected to be completed in September 2022. Elvy T. Estacio (RPCO-CAR Writer)