DPWH explains delay in road project

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By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) explained the delayed road rehabilitation project in Rizal St., Barangay VII here.

Engr. Julius Abela, Construction Division chief of DPWH-Capiz 1st District Engineering Office, said the project, which should have been finished in July 2022, was undertaken by Iloilo-based Golden Banner Construction.

The contractor discovered that the road base is swampy and unstable, thus it needs to be reinforced with suitable materials before applying the asphalt overlay.

Because of the unforeseen situation, the contractor asked for a 28-day extension before the overlaying of asphalt.

“We understand the sentiments of the motorists and riding public but we have to follow the standard operating procedure for a quality outcome of the project,” Abela said.

He said that they have already coordinated with the City Engineer’s Office before they started the project. He assured that the contractor will start the asphalt overlaying this month of August,

Last week, a city councilor said he will investigate the delayed road project because of the inconvenience it caused to motorists and business establishments.

In a speech during their Aug 16 regular session, City Councilor Gregory Albert Potato pointed out that instead of helping the city residents, the delayed road project caused more woes to motorists and passengers.

Edwin Billedo, who owns a business in the area, complained that his sales had been affected because the unfinished road discouraged his customers from going to the area.