THE Department of Public Works and Highways completed the construction of 222 kilometers of all-weather, concrete paved road and 62 permanent bridges in Eastern Samar, nearly three years after Super Typhoon “Yolanda” struck the region.
Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson said the province of Western Samar from Barangay Buray in the town of Wright is now connected to Guiuan, Eastern Samar involving a total of 15 municipalities.
Singson said that the road project known as Secondary National Roads Development Project worth more than P1.5 billion is a product of the continuing partnership between the United States of America through the Millennium Challenge Corp. and the Philippine government.
The project was completed only last May 19, 2016 in Borongan City, Eastern Samar after 44 months of project implementation notwithstanding the devastating effects of Typhoon “Yolanda” in Eastern Visayas during the period of implementation, Singson said.
“The Samareños witnessed the realization of their dream road which created jobs, improved flow of goods and services, and better peace and order, as well as access to tourism, healthcare, education and other facilities,” he said.
The end of civil works activities for the project will, however, mark the beginning of the community managed road maintenance program initiatives between DPWH, Department of Social Welfare and Development and Road Board for the San Julian to Guiuan road segment in Eastern Samar.
“The community managed road maintenance program is an opportunity for our people to demonstrate their sense of responsibility and participation in nation building,” he said.
“With the concerted efforts of government and the people in the locality, there is no doubt that we can preserve this legacy road project to enjoy the fruits of our cooperation for years to come,” Singson added.