DPWH paves roads in remote Guimaras barangays

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed several road improvement projects in remote areas of Buenavista, Guimaras, enhancing mobility and economic opportunities for local residents.

The projects, implemented by the DPWH Guimaras District Engineering Office, include road concreting in Barangay Umilig, Sitio Bongol in Barangay Tacay, and a new access road connecting the barangays of Tanag and Bacjao.

DPWH Region 6 Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel emphasized the economic benefits of the improved infrastructure. “These paved roads offer safer, faster, and cost-efficient transport of products from farms to the market, providing ease among our local farmers. They can conveniently transport their farm and livestock products at lower cost, hence, making them earn more for their families,” Oropel said.

The improvements are particularly significant for Guimaras, an island province known for its mangoes and agricultural products. Better road connectivity is expected to boost the local economy by facilitating easier transport of goods to markets.

District Engineer Randolfo A. Melosantos highlighted the increased road capacity, stating, “The improved road capacity allows heavy-loaded trucks to enter and reach even the remote areas in the town, easing the burden in hauling farm products to the market.”

The Barangay Umilig project, costing ₱15 million ($265,000), included the construction of a 1.48-kilometer concrete road with additional safety features such as solar LED street lights. In Barangay Tacay, a ₱6 million ($106,000) project delivered an 852-meter concrete road.

The most extensive project, a ₱21.56 million ($381,000) access road connecting Tanag and Bacjao, spans 2.49 kilometers and includes various safety enhancements.

These improvements are part of the Philippine government’s broader efforts to enhance rural infrastructure. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, as of 2021, only 58.7% of local roads in the country were paved, highlighting the ongoing need for such projects.

Oropel also noted the social impact of the improvements, saying, “Residents, especially students, no longer need to struggle from impassable and muddy roads during rainy season as they pursue academic excellence.”

The DPWH continues to prioritize rural road projects as part of the government’s “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program, aiming to improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth in remote areas across the Philippines. (DPWH)