DA projects 20% savings once it takes over farm-to-market road construction

The Department of Agriculture (DA) will build cheaper farm-to-market roads (FMR) once it formally assumes responsibility for the program starting next year, with the agency introducing new methods to help cut costs.

- BY DEXTER BARRO II

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said the government will save at least 20 percent in construction costs for the FMR program under the DA's leadership.

Under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the current cost of building a kilometer of a twolane FMR averages around P15 million.

Taking over from the DPWH, Tiu Laurel said the DA plans to reduce the funding to P12 million or even lower.

He said this would be possible through the use of new technologies and new methods, such as soil stabilizers, where it is suitable.

Last month, the secretary said the DA will assume control of the FMR next year. This comes after the discovery of non-existent and substandard projects under the DPWH's watch.