President Marcos approved a major infrastructure project proposed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) that would connect three administrative regions in Mindanao to spur better agricultural, transportation and economic activities.
The Chief Executive authorized the Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project (MTCIP) of the DPWH following the 21st National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) board meeting in Malacañang on Wednesday.
“It’s one of the main road programs for Mindanao. I think that we should, as much as possible, proceed with the project … we need to approve,” President Marcos said in a news release.
DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said the MTCIP will support the department’s goal to enhance the transport network in Mindanao, benefiting the agricultural sector of the country. It aims to link Northern Mindanao, Davao and Soccsksargen regions in the south.
“Mindanao Transport Connectivity Transport Project is part of the master plan for high-standard Highway Network Development Project, which identified major projects that would be developed from north Luzon, central Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” Bonoan explained.
“This project should provide high-level traffic services by assuring high speed mobility and safe travel to vital transport socio-economic activities for development of the regions and the country as a whole,” he added.
The MTCIP will also improve the transportation network in Mindanao, facilitate the transport of agricultural goods from isolated areas, preserve the long-term value of road assets, and minimize the expenses associated with routine and periodic road maintenance, according to the DPWH.
Malacañang said the project will be funded by the World Bank (WB). It will have at least five components before its completion in 2030. The DPWH said it will continue the rural roads program beyond 2030, noting these projects have been economically viable with internal economic benefit.
