Upgraded Roads Boost Mobility in Guimaras

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GUIMARAS – Travel around Nueva Valencia in Guimaras has become more convenient and safer, thanks to the upgraded roads delivered by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The DPWH Guimaras District Engineering Office reconstructed a 522-lineal meter, four-lane portion of the Guimaras Circumferential Road in Barangay Sto. Domingo. The project involved raising the road elevation to prevent flooding, considering the area’s flood-prone nature. Additional safety features include metal guard rails with end pieces and reflectorized pavement markings such as edge lines, separation lines, broken lines, and pedestrian crossings.

“This portion of Guimaras Circumferential Road is situated near the sea, where access used to be difficult, especially during high tide or rainy days when water overflowed, making the road dangerous for motorists,” said Regional Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel. “Elevating this road will mitigate flooding, ensuring safer passage and easier transport of basic goods and services, as well as uninterrupted access for the delivery of basic government services, especially during calamities and disasters.”

In addition, District Engineer Randolfo A. Melosantos highlighted another project aimed at facilitating the transport of products from farms to markets. The DPWH paved the farm-to-market road from Barangay San Roque to Barangay Lapaz, also in Nueva Valencia. The ₱12-million project involved concreting a 480-meter long, 6.10-meter wide, two-lane road, including the application of 119.75 square meters of reflectorized traffic pavement markings to ensure optimal visibility and safety, especially during low-light conditions.

“This road will facilitate smooth delivery and transport of farm products to public markets and other business establishments in the town proper, providing a reliable route for agricultural and community development activities,” Melosantos said. “The paved road will significantly benefit local residents, especially during the rainy season when they no longer have to endure muddy and impassable roads. This will increase traffic capacity and facilitate more convenient mobility.”

The upgraded roads offer better transportation access, creating linkages that increase opportunities to access basic goods and services. They make it easier for local producers to travel to markets and trade centers to sell their products or buy necessities.

The concreting of local roads is a milestone in rural development, holding the potential to transform lives by improving accessibility, stimulating economic activities, and enhancing overall living standards. The DPWH continues to prioritize rural development by providing better road networks that pave the way toward local progress and prosperity. (DPWH)