The Ungka Flyover will be open to full capacity with a brand-new and modern look on Christmas Day, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 Director Sonny Boy Oropel said in a press conference in Iloilo City.
“Once we open it on December Day, rest assured that continuous monitoring will be done by the DPWH to give the people the assurance that the structure is safe,” Oropel said.
He said the second phase of rectification will feature aesthetic upgrades such as aluminum cladding to give dynamic lighting effects as part of the DPWH’s plan to make the flyover an iconic structure for Iloilo City.
The four-lane, 453.7 lineal meters long Ungka flyover was constructed through the initiative of former Senate President Frank Drilon. The flyover serves as a key link between the busy intersection of Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue and President Corazon Aquino Avenue.
According to the DPWH, the International Builders Corporation (IBC) has been selected to handle the second phase of the rectification, while Monolithic Construction & Concrete Products, Inc., which won the first phase of rectification, is on track to complete its work focusing on foundational improvements.
Even with the additional budget for rectification, Oropel said that the four-lane Ungka Flyover, given its length and width, remains one of the most cost-effective and cheapest flyovers built by the DPWH.
Originally estimated at P1.5 billion, the project was completed for only P980 million, including the rectification costs.
During the rectification period, a portion of the flyover would continue to be open to commuters to ease traffic congestion, the DPWH assured.
Amid the delays and construction issues, both Oropel and Drilon said it is the Ombudsman that should determine the liability of those involved in the construction.
“Somebody should be made accountable. The question is, should it be the DPWH who will look for who is accountable. I don’t think so. I agree with Director Oropel that their mandate is to complete the project. The best office to resolve the issue of accountability is the Ombudsman, where the case is pending today,” Drilon said.
Drilon said DPWH could not be blamed as it was merely following the approved plan.
