PRDP Team Pushes Sta. Catalina Farm-to-Market Road Forward
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, collected soil samples at various points along the 20-kilometer stretch of the proposed PRDP Farm to Market Road in Sta. Catalina. This project spans three hinterland barangays: Poblacion, San Jose, and Talalak.
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, is making significant progress in laying the groundwork for a transformative infrastructure initiative. Recently, the team conducted soil sampling along the proposed 20-kilometer Farm-to-Market Road (FMR) that will connect three hinterland barangays—Poblacion, San Jose, and Talalak—in the municipality of Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental.
This infrastructure project, which is part of the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) flagship PRDP program, is aimed at improving rural connectivity, enhancing agricultural productivity, and fostering economic growth in the province’s remote areas.
Laying the Foundation for Progress
The soil sampling activity, a critical step in the pre-construction phase, involved collecting and analyzing soil specimens at key points along the proposed route. The results of these tests will determine the type of road materials and construction methods best suited for the project, ensuring a durable and cost-effective infrastructure.
“The soil sampling process is not just a technical necessity; it is the foundation for building a road that will stand the test of time and serve the people of Sta. Catalina for generations,” said Jalandoni.
The activity was conducted in collaboration with local government engineers and PRDP technical staff, highlighting the collective effort among NOCCI, the PRDP team, and the local government unit (LGU) of Sta. Catalina.
Connecting Communities, Empowering Agriculture
The proposed Farm-to-Market Road will traverse three barangays, addressing the long-standing logistical challenges faced by local farmers. Currently, transporting agricultural goods such as bananas, coconuts, and root crops from remote farms to urban markets remains a costly and time-consuming endeavor.
“This road is not just a path; it’s a lifeline for farmers, businesses, and the communities it connects,” shared a barangay official from San Jose.
Once completed, the FMR will provide farmers with reliable access to markets, increase the efficiency of supply chains, and reduce post-harvest losses—boosting incomes and improving the quality of life for rural residents.
NOCCI’s Role in Rural Development
NOCCI has been a staunch advocate for inclusive economic development in Negros Oriental. Under the leadership of Jalandoni, the organization continues to support PRDP’s objectives of creating opportunities for smallholder farmers and rural entrepreneurs.
The chamber’s involvement in infrastructure projects, such as the Sta. Catalina FMR, underscores its commitment to fostering public-private partnerships (PPP) that drive progress.
“Our work with PRDP exemplifies how strategic collaboration can create meaningful change,” said Jalandoni. “This road is just one part of a larger vision to make Negros Oriental a hub for sustainable agriculture and inclusive growth.”
Support from Local Stakeholders
Sta. Catalina Mayor Peve Ligan emphasized the importance of this initiative in uplifting the municipality’s rural communities. “This Farm-to-Market Road is a game-changer for Sta. Catalina,” he stated. “We are grateful to PRDP, NOCCI, and all stakeholders who are making this dream a reality.”
Farmers, barangay officials, and community leaders have also voiced their support for the project, noting that improved road access will enable them to expand their agricultural operations and attract potential investors to the area.
Towards a Brighter Future
The Sta. Catalina FMR is expected to be a cornerstone of rural development in Negros Oriental. Once operational, it will serve as a model for future infrastructure projects under the PRDP, demonstrating how well-coordinated efforts between public and private sectors can drive sustainable growth.
The PRDP team is set to complete the feasibility study and soil analysis in the coming months, paving the way for the road’s construction phase. With continued support from NOCCI, LGUs, and community stakeholders, the project is poised to bring transformative change to Sta. Catalina and its neighboring areas.
About PRDP
The Philippine Rural Development Project is a national initiative under the Department of Agriculture, co-funded by the World Bank, that aims to modernize agriculture and improve rural infrastructure through participatory and inclusive approaches.
As Negros Oriental continues its journey toward becoming a thriving agricultural hub, projects like the Sta. Catalina Farm-to-Market Road exemplify the power of collaboration, innovation, and determination. With NOCCI at the forefront of advocacy and technical support, the province is well-positioned to build a future where no community is left behind.
