Sta. Catalina Prepares for ₱630M PRDP Farm-to-Market Road

Sta. Catalina Welcomes ₱630M PRDP Farm-to-Market Road Project

The Negros Oriental Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Team, spearheaded by Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) Executive Director and Negros Oriental PRDP Focal Person John Jalandoni, paid a courtesy visit to Municipal Mayor Peve Ligan of the Municipality of Sta. Catalina to discuss the implementation of the Php 630 million Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Farm-to-Market Road Project.

This World Bank-funded project, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental, aims to significantly contribute to local economic development and inclusive growth. The project’s success hinges on the commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders. The PRDP Provincial Project Management and Implementing Unit (PPMIU) is excited to begin the pre-project implementation of activities. This initiative is spearheaded by Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, PPMIU Head Atty. Arthur Tolcidas, PPMIU Alternate Head Atty. Myles Bejar, and dedicated members of the PPMIU team.

NOCCI’s Executive Director, Mr. John Jalandoni also expressed his gratitude to Mayor Peve O. Ligan and LGU Sta. Catalina officials for their warm welcome and unwavering support.

World Bank-Backed Initiative for Inclusive Growth

The PRDP farm-to-market road project represents a monumental investment in Sta. Catalina, underscoring the municipality’s importance as an agricultural hub in Negros Oriental. This infrastructure development is designed to bridge the gap between remote farming communities and urban markets, providing farmers with the tools to succeed in a competitive marketplace.

Executive Director John Jalandoni highlighted the project’s far-reaching benefits during the meeting. “This farm-to-market road is more than just infrastructure; it is a pathway to growth, sustainability, and empowerment for our farmers. With strong collaboration from all stakeholders, we aim to make a lasting impact on Sta. Catalina’s economy,” he said.

Local Government Support Key to Success

Mayor Peve Ligan and the officials of Sta. Catalina expressed their unwavering commitment to the project’s success. Mayor Ligan commended the PRDP and NOCCI teams for their proactive engagement and pledged the full support of the Local Government Unit (LGU).

“This initiative will significantly improve the lives of our farmers and residents. It demonstrates what we can achieve through partnerships and shared vision,” Mayor Ligan stated.

The LGU’s involvement is crucial in ensuring the project aligns with the municipality’s development goals, particularly in strengthening agriculture, which is a cornerstone of the local economy.

PRDP Provincial Leadership and Team Collaboration

Spearheading the project at the provincial level are Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, Provincial Project Management and Implementation Unit (PPMIU) Head Atty. Arthur Tolcidas, and PPMIU Alternate Head Atty. Myles Bejar. Their collective leadership and vision have laid a strong foundation for the project’s pre-implementation activities.

The PPMIU team is tasked with overseeing project preparations, securing stakeholder buy-in, and ensuring compliance with the stringent requirements of the World Bank.

“Our focus is on meticulous planning and coordination,” said PPMIU Head Atty. Tolcidas. “We are committed to delivering a project that is efficient, impactful, and transformative.”

Driving Economic Growth Through Infrastructure

The ₱630 million investment in Sta. Catalina is expected to yield significant economic benefits, including:

1. Improved Agricultural Productivity: Easier access to markets will reduce transportation costs for farmers, allowing them to earn higher profits and reinvest in their businesses.
2. Job Creation: Construction and related activities will generate employment opportunities for local residents, providing a boost to the community’s economy.
3. Sustainability: The project will promote sustainable agricultural practices by enabling farmers to integrate modern methods and technologies into their operations.
4. Community Empowerment: By connecting remote villages to urban centers, the project will empower communities to participate more actively in the regional economy.

Gratitude and Optimism

In closing, NOCCI Executive Director John Jalandoni expressed gratitude to Mayor Peve Ligan and the officials of Sta. Catalina for their hospitality and support. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving the project’s objectives and looked forward to the start of its implementation.

“This initiative is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. The future of Sta. Catalina and its agricultural communities is bright, and we are excited to be part of this journey,” Jalandoni said.

Looking Ahead

With the courtesy visit and discussions laying the groundwork, the PRDP farm-to-market road project is poised to create lasting economic and social benefits for Sta. Catalina. As pre-implementation activities begin, all eyes are on the collaborative efforts of NOCCI, the PRDP team, and the Sta. Catalina LGU to turn this vision into reality.

The Negros Oriental Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) team, led by Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) Executive Director and PRDP Focal Person John Jalandoni, made a significant stride toward local economic development by meeting with Sta. Catalina Municipal Mayor Peve Ligan. The courtesy visit aimed to discuss the implementation of the ₱630 million farm-to-market road project under the PRDP.

This transformative initiative, funded by the World Bank in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Negros Oriental, is set to enhance infrastructure, improve market accessibility, and bolster the province’s agricultural economy.

This landmark initiative not only reinforces Negros Oriental’s commitment to agricultural development but also sets a benchmark for other regions seeking sustainable and inclusive growth