The Department of Agriculture (DA) Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) awarded Bohol local government units (LGUs) with good ratings in their Operations and Maintenance Audits (OMAS) from 2019 to 2022, a performance achieved under the administration of former Bohol Gov. Art Yap.
Incumbent Governor Aris Aumentado received the award on behalf of the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) during the PRDP Midterm Review and Planning Workshop held in Cebu City on September 11, 2023.
The award recognized the effective implementation of PRDP sub-projects through the Provincial Project Management Implementing Unit (PPMIU) of the Provincial Planning and Development Office.
The PRDP is a six-year national government platform for an inclusive, value chain-oriented, and climate-resilient agriculture and fisheries sector. It aims to increase rural incomes and enhance farm and fishery productivity and competitiveness.
Among the sub-projects implemented by the PGBh under the PRDP are the construction and rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads (FMRs), which provide better access and connectivity for farmers and fisherfolk to markets and services.
Also awarded during the activity were the municipalities of Sagbayan, Balilihan, Catigbian, and Inabanga and the respective barangays where PRDP projects are being implemented.
According to the DA-PRDP, the OMAS rating is given by the Regional Operations and Maintenance Team (ROMAT) to audited FMRs under the PRDP. The ROMAT evaluates the physical condition, functionality, sustainability, and economic impact of the FMRs.
The ROMAT also recognizes the barangays’ good practices, including the well-maintained road shoulders, clean canals, and preventive measures applied to ensure the condition and unhampered operation of the FMRs.
Governor Aumentado expressed his gratitude to the DA-PRDP for the recognition and support to Bohol’s rural development. He also commended the LGUs and barangays for their cooperation and commitment to maintain and sustain the PRDP sub-projects. He urged them to continue working together to achieve the goals and objectives of the PRDP.