World Bank, EU, and DA Laud Valencia City’s Progress in PRDP Farm-to-Market Road Project

Valencia City, Bukidnon – November 21, 2024 – The City Government of Valencia warmly welcomed delegates from the World Bank, the European Union (EU), and the Department of Agriculture (DA), along with the Mindanao Project Support Office, during an onsite visit and beneficiary consultation for the Concreting of the Junction Barangay Mabuhay to Barangay Banlag Proper to Sitio Pantaron Farm-to-Market Road under the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP).

This engagement was part of the 18th World Bank-European Union Implementation Support Mission to the DA-PRDP, focusing on Mindanao subprojects. The visit aimed to assess the project’s progress, gather feedback from beneficiaries, and explore ways to expand and replicate its success in other areas of the Philippines.

The 16.27-kilometer road concreting project, with a total funding of Php 238,527,571.43, is nearing completion, with 91% of the work already done. The funding breakdown is as follows:

• 60% from the World Bank
• 20% from the European Union
• 10% from the Department of Agriculture
• 10% from the City Government of Valencia

Mayor Azucena “Sunny” P. Huervas emphasized the significance of the visit, stating that it serves as a milestone in ensuring that the project aligns with the set standards and objectives. She also underscored the importance of partnerships in fostering rural development and agricultural growth.

“To our esteemed partners from the World Bank, the European Union, and DA-PRDP, we are grateful for your continued trust and investment in initiatives like this. Your support strengthens our resolve to bring sustainable development and empower our communities,” Mayor Huervas said.

Local officials and residents from Barangays Banlag and Mabuhay expressed their gratitude, highlighting the road’s positive impact on transportation, economic opportunities, and overall quality of life.

Key Delegates in Attendance

Among the notable delegates from the World Bank were:

• Maria Theresa Quinones – Co-task Team Leader and Senior Rural Development Specialist
• Marivi Amor Ladia – Social Development Specialist
• Tomas Sta. Maria – Senior Financial Management Specialist
• Luningning Bondoc – Economist
• Engr. Raoul Azanza – Rural Infrastructure Engineer
• Mario Orilla – Procurement Specialist
• Midori Makino – Program Leader for Planet
• Cora Dankers – Agriculture Policy Specialist
• Son Van Nguyen – Social Environment Safeguards Specialist

From the European Union, Alix Wurdak, Program Manager, and Peter Hinn, GIZ Principal Sponsor at SPADe MinPAD-Rise, joined the visit.

Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture – PRDP was represented by:

• U-Nichols Manalo – National Project Director and Assistant Secretary for Operations
• Angelita Martir – National Deputy Project Director
• Macario Gonzaga – Project Director
• Carlene Collado – Deputy Project Director of PSO-Mindanao
• Carlota Madriaga – Deputy Project Director of RPCO 10

The delegates commended Valencia City’s efforts in infrastructure development, citing the city’s strong governance and commitment to sustainable progress. They also provided recommendations to maximize the project’s impact and ensure long-term benefits for the community.

As the road project nears full completion, the City Government of Valencia remains committed to enhancing connectivity and boosting agricultural productivity, reaffirming its dedication to inclusive and sustainable rural development.