Roads improved to promote tourism, trade in Aklan towns

Two road projects in Libacao town are being undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Aklan District Engineering Office.

The projects are expected to boost tourism and trade development of the province.

In his report to DPWH 6 Regional Director (RD) Lea N. Delfinado, District Engineer (DE) Alejandro M. Ventilacion said the construction of a road leading to Mangayaw Waterfalls in Brgy. Guadalupe is almost completed.

Also, the construction of the access road leading to tayok-tayok, nito and abaca-making barangay of Manika, is in full swing.

“Both projects are already roughly 80 percent implemented and we are hoping to complete them within the 3rd quarter of the current year,” DE Ventilacion said.

The P23.4-million road project leading to Mangayaw Falls involves the construction of 1-kilometer long, 6.1-meter-wide road using Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) with slope protection and line ditch.

The improved road will provide a more comfortable access to Mangayaw Waterfalls, promoting local tourism industry.

On the other hand, the Php79-million access road leading to tayok-tayok, nito and abaca makers in Brgy. Manika involves the construction of 3.4-kilometer, 6.1-meter wide PCCP, also with slope protection and line.

This road will provide easier and faster delivery of native products from the barangays to the town proper and to the neighboring towns and provinces.

In addition, the District has completed the construction of the access road along Numancia-Lezo provincial road in Lezo, Aklan, which is dubbed as the ‘pottery’ capital of Aklan.  The project is implemented in convergence with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) thru the ROLL IT program.

Php9.3 million was allocated for this project which involves construction of 2-lane, 500-meter long, 6.7-meter wide PCCP including drainage and reflectorized thermoplastic pavement markings.

RD Delfinado said despite the challenges brought about by COVID-19 pandemic, DPWH continues to implement significant infrastructure projects that will provide ease of travel among the commuters and motorists, and will provide income to the people.

“Many have lost their jobs because of this (COVID-19) pandemic, hence, these infrastructure programs being implemented by the Department will provide them jobs that could help them earn for the needs of their families,” Delfinado said. (DPWHR6/RPAIO)