To enhance the sustainability of the implemented subprojects under the Department of Agriculture – Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP), the Regional Operation and Maintenance Audit Team (ROMAT) from DA RFO 5 conducted a comprehensive Operations and Maintenance Audit System (OMAS) for the completed I-REAP subprojects in the Province of Albay.

ROMAT Member Engr. Henry Espinar of the Regional Agricultural and Engineering Division (RAED), together with DA PRDP Bicol Monitoring and Evaluation Officer Michelle Jan Sapalaran, Enterprise Development and Marketing Specialist (EDMS) Victoria Eugene Florece, and Financial Analyst I Ceasar Jay Quimco monitored the Sweet Potato-Based Products Processing Enterprise and the Malilipot Abaca Twine Processing and Marketing Enterprise to assess the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Plans of the proponent groups. Said Audit aims to ensure continued functionality and long-term sustainability.

The Sweet Potato-Based Products Processing Enterprise was completed in 2020, while the Malilipot Abaca Twine Processing and Marketing Enterprise was finished in 2021. As part of the OMAS evaluation, three core areas were assessed: the functionality of the subproject, the physical condition of infrastructure (including roadways, drainage systems, and road safety structures), and the social and institutional status of the project, which encompasses the LGU community organization, O&M funds, O&M plans and policies, and additional support structures.

These subprojects underwent a thorough evaluation to measure their adherence to OMAS criteria. The audit highlighted areas requiring minor adjustments while also recognizing best practices that contributed to the successful implementation of the projects. Moreover, discussions with the proponent groups provided valuable insights into recurring challenges, resource limitations, and potential interventions that could strengthen the maintenance and management of the projects over the long term.

The findings from this audit will be crucial for refining future project oversight and sustainability strategies. According to the Implementation Management Agreement (IMA) between DA-PRDP and the LGUs, local government unit (LGU) beneficiaries are responsible for the operation and maintenance of PRDP-funded infrastructure subprojects for a minimum of 10 years, ensuring that these initiatives continue to provide lasting benefits to the communities they serve. #

ROMAT team visited the Sweet Potato-Based Products Processing Enterprise and the Malilipot Abaca Twine Processing and Marketing Enterprise to assess the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Plans of the proponent groups