ORAS, Eastern Samar – The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is set to turn over seven newly completed farm-to-market road projects worth P100 million in eight remote villages in Oras, Eastern Samar, following a year of construction.
Representatives from DAR’s Project Management Service (PMS) inspected the roads in preparation for their turnover to the local government unit (LGU). Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Randy Frogosa, who led the inspection, praised the quality of the projects, which span from Barangay San Eduardo to Barangay Nadacpan, and continue through Barangays Saurong, Agsam, Iwayan, Minap-os, Alang-Alang, and Cadi-an.
The 3-kilometer road network, financed through the Agrarian Reform Fund (ARF), was implemented by the Oras LGU.
Frogosa noted the additional “farmers’ access” pathways were built alongside the roads, even though they were not part of the original plan. These additions are expected to prevent road damage from the passage of heavy farm machinery and equipment.
While impressed with the overall construction, Frogosa pointed out minor defects that need to be addressed before the final payment and official turnover can proceed.
Oras Mayor Roy Ador expressed his gratitude to DAR for entrusting them with the substantial project. He emphasized that the newly built roads would enhance not only the town’s economic activities but also its peace and order, as the roads pass through villages identified under the End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) initiative.
“This project strengthens our capacity to undertake similar infrastructure developments in the future. These roads will also improve the lives of over 10,000 residents, especially in accessing markets and services more efficiently,” Ador said.
The realization of these road projects is largely due to the efforts of House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-List Representative Marcelino Libanan, who championed the project to address the long-standing transportation issues in the area.
Once turned over, the roads are expected to significantly boost local economic activity, improve access to essential services, and ensure safer and faster travel for residents and agrarian reform beneficiaries in the region. (PR)
