(Photo courtesy of DA)
LEGAZPI CITY — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has turned over 26 hauling trucks worth Php 70.92 million to 24 farmers’ cooperatives and associations (FCAs) and two local government units (LGUs) across the Bicol Region to improve agricultural transport and reduce logistics expenses.
DA Bicol Regional Executive Director Rodel Tornilla said Friday that the trucks would help farmers transport their harvests more efficiently from production areas to trading centers and public markets.
The six-wheeler trucks, valued at approximately Php 2.7 million each, were distributed Thursday during a blessing and turnover ceremony at the DA Bicol compound in San Agustin, Pili, Camarines Sur.
Of the 26 vehicles, 22 were funded under the agency’s Rice Program, while four were provided through the Corn Program.
Tornilla emphasized that the distribution forms part of the government’s efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity by improving farmers’ access to transportation and logistical support.
“These hauling trucks symbolize our collective efforts to advance the agricultural sector in our country,” Tornilla said.
The trucks are expected to help beneficiary organizations reduce transportation expenses and improve the movement of agricultural products, particularly in areas where farmers face difficulties bringing their harvests to markets.
Meanwhile, DA Bicol Regional Technical Director for Operations Mary Grace Rodriguez reminded the recipients to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the vehicles.
“Take care of the trucks, maintain unity among the FCAs, and use them for legitimate business activities,” Rodriguez said.
Before the turnover, beneficiaries attended an orientation on the proper operation and maintenance of the hauling trucks.
Regional Agricultural Engineering Division chief Jerry Ebona explained that the vehicles could be used to transport agricultural produce, farm inputs, animal feeds, and other materials essential to farming operations.
Tornilla formally handed over the vehicles to representatives of the recipient organizations, together with Rodriguez, Rice Program focal person Earl Vincent Vegas, Corn Program Regional Coordinator Amabel Bombase, and Ebona.
The DA said the initiative aims to strengthen agricultural logistics, improve farmers’ market access, and support the efficient distribution of rice, corn, and other agricultural commodities throughout Bicol.
The agency also emphasized the importance of maintaining the vehicles to ensure their long-term benefits for farmers and local agricultural communities.
