Manila, April 15 -- Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday said the PHP365.9-million NRJ Trinidad-Mabini farm-to-market road (FMR) project in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte will serve as a lifeline for local farmers.

In a statement, Tiu Laurel said the 6.5-kilometer infrastructure covering 2,182 hectares of coconut, rice, corn, and banana production zones will boost the region's coconut industry, addressing long-standing issues in connectivity and economic gains.

It is expected to benefit 2,884 families, including 1,245 farming households, as it links 10 barangays across Surigao City and Sison.

"This farm-to-market road is more than just infrastructure - it is a lifeline for our farmers and a direct investment in ...