No more overpriced farm-to-market roads, says DAMANILA, Philippines — Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Thursday, January 9, said that there will no longer be overpriced farm-to-market (FMR) roads now that the establishment of these highways will be left to the agency. Lawmakers flagged the overpriced roads, with one project even costing more than 20 times the standard price. In a briefing, Tiu Laurel said there is a new costing under the Department of Agriculture (DA). The DA secretary said the proper costing will be established so that the contractor will still make a fair profit without inordinate excesses. Based on their current figures, Tiu Laurel said that they will offer P14.5 million per kilometer to companies, with value-added tax included.

Source: Philippine Star January 08, 2026 13:38 UTC