STA. JOSEFA, AGUSAN DEL SUR — The DTI–RAPID Growth Project – Agusan del Sur, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Sta. Josefa, is strengthening local capacity in rural infrastructure through a Training of Trainers (TOT) on Labor-Based Technology (LBT) for Road Rehabilitation and Maintenance held from September 7 to 11, 2026, in General Santos City. Representing the LGU of Sta. Josefa were Engr. Juvylyn Bitang and Engr. Zeraul Jun Luarez, alongside Ms. Dinah D. Abapo, Provincial Project Coordinator of the RAPID Growth Project – Agusan del Sur. The training forms part of the project's continuing efforts to improve rural infrastructure that links farming communities with markets, services, and economic opportunities.
Developing Skills for Sustainable Road Maintenance
The five-day training focused on strengthening participants' knowledge and practical competencies in labor-based road rehabilitation, appropriate construction techniques, routine and periodic maintenance, as well as road monitoring and sustainability. Labor-Based Technology provides an alternative to highly machine-dependent and capital-intensive construction methods by maximizing local labor, suitable tools, and locally available materials. For rural communities, this approach can support more practical and sustainable road maintenance while creating opportunities for local participation. By developing the capabilities of LGU engineers, the initiative helps ensure that farm-to-market roads and other rural infrastructure are maintained beyond their initial construction. It also supports the RAPID Growth Project's objective of strengthening local institutional capacity, allowing LGUs to take greater responsibility for managing and sustaining infrastructure investments.
Supporting Inclusive Rural Economic Development
The training also reinforces the collaboration between the DTI–RAPID Growth Project and the LGU of Sta. Josefa in building local expertise and improving the implementation and maintenance of rural infrastructure. The RAPID Growth Project is a six-year investment initiative implemented through a partnership between the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). It seeks to address infrastructure gaps that affect farmers' ability to reach markets while supporting rural enterprises and broader economic opportunities. Through investments in both infrastructure and human capacity, the project aims to improve connectivity, strengthen market access, and promote inclusive rural development. For Sta. Josefa and surrounding farming communities, developing local expertise in road rehabilitation and maintenance provides a foundation for keeping essential rural infrastructure functional and beneficial over the long term.
