By Lane Afable
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is ramping up road reblocking works and temporary repairs on damaged sections of the Maharlika Highway for the upcoming Holy Week.
According to DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, the move is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure smooth and hassle-free travel for motorists and commuters returning to their provinces during the Lenten season.
Dizon assured the public that the temporary repairs will be completed before Holy Week, in time for the anticipated influx of motorists traversing the Maharlika Highway.
“Kailangan before Holy Week ay completely madaanan na nang buo ‘yung Maharlika. Mula Quezon, Bicol, Samar hanggang Leyte. Pumunta ako rito para masigurado na magde-deliver ‘yung RD natin na itong lahat ng ongoing projects natin ay mabilis matatapos para bago mag-Holy Week—eh three weeks na lang Holy Week na—lahat ito ay bukas na,” Dizon said.
The DPWH chief also ordered the fast-tracking of the construction of the Batangas City–San Pascual–Bauan Diversion Road in Batangas to help decongest traffic in the area.
Residents of Barangay San Roque in Bauan, Batangas, are expected to benefit once the delayed construction of the Batangas City–San Pascual–Bauan Diversion Road is completed.
The project is seen to improve transportation and shorten travel time in the area, while also boosting local economic activity.
“‘Yung economic benefit nitong kalye na ito ay napakalaki and it will even go beyond Bauan. Kasi ngayon, lahat ng mga truck na nanggagaling sa ports sa Batangas dito sa Bauan, lahat dumadaan sa sentro ng Bauan, sa main road. So pati ‘yung mga tao doon, giginhawa ‘yung traffic, giginhawa ‘yung buhay nila kasi lahat ng mga truck dito na dadaan,” Dizon added.
Once completed, the diversion road will allow cargo trucks from the Batangas ports to bypass the town center of Bauan, easing traffic congestion and improving mobility for residents and motorists in the area.
