Paved Road Boosts Access, Livelihood in Guimaras

Residents of Barangays Lucmayan, San Roque and Lapaz in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras now enjoy improved mobility with the completion of a concrete road built by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Implemented by the DPWH Guimaras District Engineering Office, the PHP35-million project was funded under the FY 2024 General Appropriations Act.

The project involved the construction of a 1.5-kilometer, 6.1-meter-wide, two-lane Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) road.

It also included a 91-lineal-meter rectangular lined canal, a 140-lineal-meter trapezoidal lined canal and 311.5 cubic meters of concrete slope protection.

Necessary lane markings and warning signs were installed to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians.

In his report to DPWH Region 6 Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel, District Engineer Randolfo A. Melosantos said the project aims to enhance transportation infrastructure and provide a reliable route for agriculture, tourism and community development.

“The paved road will facilitate smooth delivery and transport of farm and fishery products to public markets and other business establishments in the town proper,” Melosantos said.

He added that reflectorized thermoplastic pavement markings and guardrails were installed to ensure optimal visibility and safety for motorists during low-light conditions.

The road concreting project provides better access in emergencies and improved comfort for employees and students, earning positive feedback from the community.

“We are grateful for the concreting of our road as it significantly improved our daily lives,” said Hon. Nora T. Gamuyao, Punong Barangay of San Roque.

“Unlike before, our fisherfolk and farmers can now transport and sell their products to town markets without worrying about high hauling costs,” she added.

Regional Director Oropel emphasized that the road will ensure the easy delivery of basic government services to communities, especially during calamities and emergencies.

“This paved road will enhance the socio-economic conditions of farm owners, fisherfolk and local business owners,” Oropel said.

“It will serve as an alternate route to the main drop-off points of Taklong Island Marine Reserve and La Puerta Beach Resort, which are popular tourist destinations in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras,” he added.

This infrastructure project is expected to improve connectivity, enable smoother travel and contribute to the overall socio-economic progress of the province. (DPWH)