Farmers in the upland communities of Sagay City, Negros Occidental could soon enjoy faster and safer access to markets with the proposed construction of the P95-million Pacul Bridge under the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP).
The 60-meter bridge will span the Pacul River and connect the villages of Baviera, Sewahon I, Colonia Divina, and Tadlong—areas where agriculture remains a major source of livelihood.
Project moves closer to implementation
The bridge project was approved by the Regional Project Advisory Board–Negros Island Region on June 8 and has been endorsed to the National Project Coordination Office for final clearance.
DA-Negros Island Region Director Jose Albert Barrogo said the project is awaiting the issuance of a No Objection Letter 1, which will allow the Sagay City government to proceed with the bidding process.
Better access, lower transport costs
Sagay City Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva said the bridge will help improve connectivity in agricultural communities, making it easier for farmers to bring their products to market while reducing transportation costs.
“This bridge is an investment in our farmers, our communities, and our local economy,” Cueva said.
He added that improving rural infrastructure remains a key strategy in boosting productivity, increasing incomes, and expanding access to government services in remote areas.
Supporting rural development
Beyond improving mobility, the project is expected to strengthen the local agricultural sector by supporting crop diversification and enhancing the muscovado sugar value chain.
According to the PRDP Project Support Office–Visayas Cluster, the bridge will enable the safer and more efficient movement of people, goods, and services across farming communities.
Funding for the project will come from the DA-PRDP Scale-Up program, with the World Bank covering 70 percent of the cost, the national government contributing 10 percent, and the Sagay City government providing the remaining 20 percent.
Once completed, the Pacul Bridge is expected to serve as a vital link that supports both rural development and long-term agricultural growth in northern Negros Occidental.
