DPWH completes paving of local road for enhanced community access in Northern Negros Occidental

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has enhanced connectivity between Purok Pinya and Purok Saging in Barangay Bunga, Don Salvador Benedicto, northern Negros Occidental, through the completion of a newly paved local road.

Constructed by the DPWH Negros Occidental Sub District Engineering Office, the project received a budget of ₱10 million from the FY 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA). It features the concreting of a 1.16-lane kilometer long, 5-meter wide, two-lane Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP), complete with a 1-meter shoulder on both sides.

Additionally, the project includes the construction of a slope protection structure for pavement stability and the installation of reflective thermoplastic markings to ensure the safety of all road users.

OIC-District Engineer Juan Alfonso G. Jorbina, Sr., reported to DPWH 6 OIC-Regional Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel that the new road is expected to facilitate faster movement of people, goods, and services, and will likely spur economic opportunities for locals.

“The newly paved road is set to enhance local trade and streamline the transportation of agricultural produce to markets, enabling cost-efficient movement and potentially increasing farmers’ incomes,” stated OIC-RD Sanny Boy O. Oropel.

“Furthermore, the road improves access to educational opportunities. Students living in remote areas can now more easily reach towns and cities for better education, which could lead to improved employment prospects and livelihoods for their families,” RD Oropel elaborated.

Moreover, OIC-District Engineer Jorbina highlighted that the road connects two previously isolated areas of Barangay Bunga, simplifying access to essential government services.

“Improved mobility in Barangay Bunga will foster socio-economic activities, allowing residents to seize opportunities crucial for community growth,” OIC-DE Jorbina commented.

Roads play a key role in economic development and social welfare. They are essential for a nation’s growth by providing access to employment, social, health, and education services, thus being instrumental in combating poverty.

In line with this, the DPWH is committed to ensuring that even the most remote areas have better transportation systems by constructing accessible and convenient local roads. (DPWH)