Catarman N. Samar-To enhance mobility and strengthen local connectivity, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Northern Samar 1st District Engineering Office (DEO) is currently implementing a P9.74-million road construction project in Sitio Crystal Mountain, Barangay San Jose, Mondragon, Northern Samar.

The project involves the construction of a 471-meter road, with widths of 1.00 m, 2.00 m, and 3.05 m, and a thickness of 0.23 m. It also includes the construction of a 150-meter trapezoidal stone masonry-lined canal, 100 meters of structural concrete with reinforcing steel (grade 40) slope protection with embankment and riprap, and the installation of eleven 910 mm diameter reinforced concrete pipe culverts (RCPC) for water drainage.

In an interview, a resident revealed that the concreting and widening of the road pavement significantly reduces the risk of accidents especially for habal-habal drivers who have long been concerned about safety, as the existing road is narrow and more like a footpath than a proper roadway.

Mr. Bernabe Glulariza also highlighted how the road has positively impacted his work as a farmer.

Bali, aming produkto ngayon, ikumpara noon at ngayon, mas malaki na ang na-improve sa ngayon kaysa sa nakaraang taon, mahirap noon ang pagbyahe dito. Nakaka punta kami dito ng deretso at pwede na din makabalik agad-agad.

Another farmer from the area, Mr. Ruben Silvestre also expressed his thoughts about the project.

“Yana, nadugngan gihapon ngan ginpa-halapad gihapon para diri gihapon kami kurian kun may man makaparok sa amon sin mga sarakyan nga dagko, di na kami kurian kay nadugngan gihapon. Bisan pa mga truck pwede na maka-agi ngadi sa amon agi-anan.”
The project, funded under the 2025 General Appropriations Act, is expected to be completed by October 2025.

(ANALIZA A. PABIA /PR)

Ormoc City – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office (DEO) maintenance team conducted a weekend de-clogging and clearing activity along the canal in Brgy. Owak, Ormoc City after continuous rains caused it to overflow. The team worked to remove debris and ensure the free flow of water to help prevent flooding and minimize inconvenience to the community. (PR)

TACLOBAN CITY – The provincial government of Northern Samar reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and compassionate governance by sustaining the Alternative Learning System (ALS) program for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Northern Samar Provincial Jail.

The initiative was recently highlighted during a Portfolio Day, Sportsfest, and “Tagisan ng Talento” held inside the jail facility, showcasing the talents, skills, and academic milestones of PDLs.

Governor Harris Ongchuan personally graced the event, underscoring the role of education in rehabilitation and reintegration.

“Inclusive education is at the heart of our administration’s development thrust. Through ALS, we provide our PDL community with the opportunity to learn, transform, and eventually contribute back to society,” Ongchuan said in his address.

He further emphasized that the program is not only about academic learning but also about affirming the dignity of PDLs as part of the wider community. “We believe in their potential to help in the progress of our province, and the provincial government is committed to providing the right support and services,” he added.

Outstanding PDLs were recognized for their academic efforts, while winners of the sports and talent competitions were awarded—proving that correctional facilities can also be hubs of personal growth.

OIC Provincial Warden EnP Jay Keenson Acebuche, who formally opened the activity, assured PDLs of the jail management’s commitment to rehabilitation through education. DepEd’s support was also reinforced by Annalyne Balero, principal of Acereda Integrated School, who vowed continued assistance for the ALS program.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)