In the province of Nueva Vizcaya, approximately 70 percent of its road network traverses challenging, mountainous terrain, much of which is located in the upland barangays. This topographical reality has long posed a significant challenge to local government efforts in driving development and infrastructure initiatives.
A significant portion of Nueva Vizcaya’s population—nearly 40 percent—is made up of indigenous people, who rely on upland agriculture as their primary source of livelihood. Their farming practices not only support their families but have also propelled the province into a key high-value crop contributor, both in local and international markets.
Given its vast agricultural potential, Nueva Vizcaya has attracted the attention of both the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), who have launched various programs and projects aimed at boosting agricultural productivity while ensuring the ecological balance is maintained.
However, despite these advancements, many of the province’s 275 barangays—particularly those situated in the upland and remote areas—still face significant road development challenges. Barangay officials have repeatedly voiced concerns about the lack of infrastructure that could further propel local growth.
In response to these needs, the provincial local government has launched the ‘Dalan Ti Umili’ (Road of the Villagers) program, a comprehensive initiative designed to provide both cement and fuel assistance to barangays, empowering them to undertake crucial road construction projects.
“While the PLGU shoulders the costs of cement and fuel, the communities play an active role in contributing labor and gravel for the construction work. This shared responsibility strengthens the spirit of cooperation and community-driven development, embodying the true essence of ‘Bayanihan,’” explained Engineer Edgardo Sabado, Provincial Planning and Development Officer.
The program has been allocated a budget of P30 million for cement and an additional P5 million for fuel. According to Sabado, the initiative aligns closely with the provincial government’s goal of supporting rural development, particularly in the upland regions of Nueva Vizcaya.
“Our focus is on building a sustainable future,” Sabado continued. “Through this program, we aim to improve access to markets, empower our farmers, and create new opportunities for economic growth in the province.”
The ‘Dalan Ti Umili’ Program is also part of a broader infrastructure effort, underpinned by the ‘Kalsada Ti Kabanbantayan’ (Roads in the Mountains) initiative, which aims to expand and improve accessibility for farmers and residents in remote barangays.
“These infrastructure projects will bring essential government services closer to our upland communities,” Sabado emphasized. “With better roads, our Indigenous Peoples will experience easier transportation, saving them time and resources, which, in turn, will help stimulate economic activity across the province.”
By bridging the gap between rural communities and essential services, these road projects are poised to be a game-changer for Nueva Vizcaya—fostering both economic and social progress for its upland barangays. (OTB/BME/PIA Nueva Vizcaya)
