Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is set to meet with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to discuss upgrading the country’s roads and bridges.
The goal is to ensure the smooth transport of agricultural goods, lower costs and enhance food security.
“A strong road and bridge network is essential for agriculture, especially in an archipelago like the Philippines. Efficient transport infrastructure directly impacts logistics, reducing costs and improving the movement of farm inputs and produce,” Tiu Laurel said.
He said well-maintained roads and bridges could lower transportation expenses, minimize spoilage and help farmers bring their goods to market faster, leading to more stable consumer prices.
Tiu-Laurel pointed out during the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) recent multiyear budget planning session that Thailand and Vietnam benefit from lower transport costs due to superior road conditions.
“Better infrastructure strengthens the supply chain, reducing farm-to-market costs,” he said, noting that trucks there can carry 8 to 10 tons more than the 41-ton limit in the Philippines.
In the Philippines, many farmers and traders overload trucks to cut costs, deteriorating road and bridge conditions, which has led to multiple collapses across Luzon and the Visayas in recent years, while weak enforcement of DPWH load limits has allowed the practice to persist.
The planned discussions between the DA and DPWH will identify priority areas for infrastructure upgrades, particularly in key agricultural regions.
Tiu Laurel said while improving transport networks is a long-term effort, it is critical for the agricultural sector. Better roads and bridges mean lower costs for farmers, higher profits and fewer losses due to delays or spoilage, he said.
He said that for consumers, this translates to more stable prices and a secure food supply.