AGUSAN DEL NORTE – In an effort to promote sustainable development and lasting peace, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) led the inauguration and turnover of newly-constructed road projects on March 14 in the province.

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These roads were built as part of OPAPRU’s Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) program, the national government’s flagship initiative aimed at improving the lives of residents in conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable areas across the country.

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Completed within a year of groundbreaking, the projects are expected to drive economic growth in Agusan del Norte, symbolizing peace, progress, and stability in the region.

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In his speech during the turnover ceremony, Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. highlighted that these projects represent more than just infrastructure, stating, “These roads are more than just a means of transport—they are paths to peace and progress. Through PAMANA, we are bringing government services closer to the people, ensuring that development reaches even the most remote and vulnerable communities.”

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Transforming Lives through Convergence

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The completion of the Mahaba-Belwang Farm-to-Market Road has been highly anticipated, especially by indigenous communities, who will benefit greatly from improved mobility and better access to the town center.

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A local resident emphasized the importance of infrastructure in community development, stating, “Building vital infrastructure plays a critical role in community development, leading to the attainment of sustainable peace and progress.” The road will also enhance accessibility to government services and improve security.

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The 1,000-meter Mahaba Road has ended the isolation of hard-to-reach communities, offering a safer and more accessible route to schools, markets, and healthcare centers.

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An 820-meter Afga road now connects families to essential services and significantly reduces travel time for residents.

The 1,269.95-meter Balang-Balang Road, which includes a 1,023.15-meter concrete pavement and a 246.80-meter road opening, is expected to open new opportunities for farmers and small businesses, making it easier to transport goods.

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The Kaunlaran-Masundong-Sumobay Road, with its 1,000-meter concrete pavement and 840-meter road opening, will connect previously isolated communities to the town center and market areas. A local official remarked, “What used to be a hard-to-reach remote area can now be accessed with ease and convenience.”

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“With these roads, transporting agricultural products from farms to markets becomes more efficient, reducing transportation costs, increasing farmers' profits, and offering competitive prices without compromising affordability for consumers,” the official added.