Completed DPWH-DOT convergence project to boost tourism in northern Iloilo

Various tourist spots in north Gigantes Island in Carles, Iloilo is now accessible courtesy of the convergence project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Tourism (DOT) under the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP).

With a ₱255-million funding, this multi-year project (FY 2016-2021) is implemented by DPWH Regional Office 6 and Iloilo 3^rd District Engineering Office along the whole stretch of north Gigantes Island, traversing the barangays of Langub, Piagao and Asluman.

In his report to DPWH 6 Regional Director (RD) Nerie D. Bueno, District Engineer Ricardo R. Gutierrez said the project involves the construction of the 8.86-kilometer, 2-lane, 6.10-meter wide Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) road with a 1.5-meter shoulder on both sides, including the provision of slope protection.

According to Bueno, upgrading the existing road will provide ease of travel going to different tourist destinations on the island.

“As tourists (both local and foreign) flock to this famous ‘Isla de Gigantes’ in Carles, we need to improve our road condition to provide an accessible, safer, easier, and more convenient transport system going around the island,” Bueno said.

“With this better road condition, we can attract more tourists, traders and investors, which means creating more job and livelihood opportunities that could eventually help improve the economic condition of the residents.”

Meanwhile, Director Bueno noted that another ₱8 million is proposed by DPWH Iloilo 3^rd DEO to fund additional amenities on the road in 2023.

“To make this road usable even at night, we have proposed to install solar street lights along the whole stretch of the road, to ensure the safety of both residents and tourists, especially at night,” Bueno explained. (DPWH-6)