NSSDEO, Brgy, Burabud, Laoang, Northern Samar – To assess the functionality of by-pass roads in Gamay, Lapinig, and San Roque, the Department of Public Works and Highways-Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office recently conducted an assessment of these roads for their possible conversion from local roads to national roads. The Subject Road for Conversion (SRC) include the Gamay By-Pass Road, Lapinig By-Pass Road, and San Roque By-Pass Road.
This assessment and validation activity of subject by-pass roads was led by the Planning and Design Section, with the support from the Construction Section, Quality Assurance Section, and Maintenance Section, and was conducted from October 6 to 10, 2025. Known as the Traffic Condition Assessment (TCA), this evaluation aims to determine the current condition of the identified roads and verify their potential function as by-pass or diversion roads in accordance with Department Order No. 112, series of 2024, Revised Criteria and Guidelines for Road Conversion from Local to National Roads and Vice Versa. The assessment team carried out field data collection, including traffic volume counts, road inventory, and travel time and delay surveys.
The activity commenced on October 6, led by DPWH-Central Office personnel, followed by an orientation for the personnel assigned to conduct the Traffic Condition Assessment (TCA) on the identified by-pass roads. On the following day, October 7, the team formally began the traffic survey at the San Roque By-Pass Road which included the mobilization of survey equipment such as tents, traffic signages, and other necessary materials.
On October 8, the team prepared to mobilize the survey equipment, including tents, traffic signages, along with the assigned personnel. The following day, October 9, they proceeded with the traffic surveys at Gamay By-Pass Road & Lapinig By-Pass Road. The activity concluded on October 10, with an exit conference attended by District Engineer Atty. Arthur Eric L. Sabong, OIC- Assistant District Engineer Francisco Y. Tañala, and Planning & Design Chief, Engr. Joseph C. Romance.
This activity highlights the department’s aim to balance development with sustainable mobility by rigorously evaluating traffic conditions, impacts, future directions on the said SRCs, and by promptly producing solutions to the identified problems.
Furthermore, the possible conversion of the subject roads is expected to greatly support the Implementing Office in fulfilling its mandate to deliver essential infrastructure services by ensuring the timely execution of routine maintenance to prolong the serviceable condition of its national roads.
By: Jamaica I. Acebuche-PIO Staff Writer
