Since the outbreak of COVID-19 the number of infected persons has been surging so as the number of people who have lost their jobs. Many are struggling to support their families and trying to find alternative ways to earn a living.

The construction of all infrastructure projects were also halted with the Implementation of the Enhanced Community Quarantine as a measure to control the further spread of the virus. However, with the set of rules implemented by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF), construction of FMRs and other government projects are allowed only if the rules are strictly complied with.

The Construction of Manangle to Caima Farm to Market Road in Sipocot, Camarines Sur is one of the projects that can now continue. This FMR connects six barangays were their main source of livelihood is rice production and coconut farming. The residents believe that once the construction is completed, they can transport their produce easily.

As the road construction reach Brgy. Carayrayan, the contractors hired laborers within the barangay to help in the road construction. As a result, residents who lost their employment during the pandemic were given jobs. The residents are also assured that the incursion of the virus in their locality will be prevented as there will be no outsiders.

As an expression of support and solidarity the barangay officials work together in preparing lunch for the workers in the construction site. Moreover, the barangay officials also help monitor the construction of their FMR.

The Mangle to Caima FMR will provide access road that would link economic growth points of the six barangays to the national highway thereby improving the agri-economic and social condition of the people. This will also bring about socio-economic impact to farm households and open opportunities to basic services. (Michelle Angela G. Alfigura, DA-PRDP RPCO 5 InfoACE)