Baguio City – The Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) continues to ensure the readiness and capability of its implementers through a financial assessment last April 20-21 in Azalea Residences in this city.

In attendance in the event is PRDP National Deputy Project Director Arnel De Mesa gave who gave the updates on the PRDP implementation. De Mesa urged the components to fast-track their pace especially the I-REAP component which currently has a portfolio of P1.1 billion. “The PRDP budget covers almost 25% of the DA’s portfolio, so the success of the project strongly impacts the whole department,” he added.

Likewise, Project Support Office (PSO) Luzon A Project Director Andrew Villacorta who graced the event revealed the cluster’s need for a sense of urgency in achieving higher figures and an improved efficient system of implementation.

The National Project Coordination Office (NPCO) led by NPCO Financial Analyst II Albert Acuña spearheaded the said event that gathered finance officers from Luzon to meet the financial requirements of the Project and its major funder World Bank. During the two-day event, participants discussed cost tables, targeted disbursements, and significant transactions within the Project.

NPCO Financial Specialist Elvira Costales stressed on the continuing efficiency of funds usage. “We shall continue to value the trust given to us by the World Bank, correct all mistakes and carry on the proper and correct methods for the success of the project,” said Costales.

PRDP is a six-year project worth P27 billion jointly funded by the World Bank, Government of the Philippines (GOP) and Local Government Units (LGUs). A significantly large portion of this budget totaling to roughly P20 billion came from a WB loan, while the remaining P7 billion from the GOP and LGU equities. (Kayla Arceo)

NPCO DPD Engr. Arnel de Mesa gives updates on the financial status of PRDP. He urged the I-REAP component to increase their pace in achieving higher figures to be presented in the upcoming World Bank review mission. (Photo by: Darrell Sunga)