TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 2nd District Engineering Office (L2DEO) has completed a 556.25-meter concrete road in Barangay Casuntingan, connecting to Barangay Osmeña in MacArthur, Leyte.

The P7.9-million project includes 2,781.25 square meters of Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) and 164.26 cubic meters of stone masonry, according to District Engineer Leo Edward Oppura.

Barangay Casuntingan chairman Edwin Cajino expressed gratitude for the new road, which addresses issues caused by muddy conditions during rainy days. “It benefits schoolchildren, farmers, and residents who now have easier access to markets and services. Many villagers also gained jobs during the road’s construction, particularly in clearing activities,” he said.

The road, built under the DPWH CY 2024 General Appropriations Act – Basic Infrastructure Program, began construction on August 6, 2024, and was completed on October 11, 2024, by KM Golong Construction.

The project is expected to improve transportation of goods and delivery of basic services, significantly boosting the livelihood and quality of life in the area.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

CATARMAN, N. Samar-The Department of Public Works and Highways – Northern Samar First District Engineering Office (DPWH-NSFDEO) is now expediting the construction of a new bridge that will address a long-standing challenge faced by residents of Barangay Gebulwangan and its four neighboring barangays.

This two-phase project involves the construction of a road and a 3-span Reinforced Concrete Deck Girder (RCDG) bridge with a total length of 45 meters and an estimated cost of P60 million. The new bridge will replace the existing wooden structure, offering a safer and more reliable passage for the community.

The need for a new bridge in Barangay Gebulwangan arises from the repeated destruction of the old wooden bridge caused by typhoons and severe weather conditions. According to locals, rising water levels during the rainy season often make the wooden bridge impassable, disrupting the flow of goods and services.

“Ako si Nida Saludario, residente dito sa Brgy. Gebulwangan. Ang masasabi ko sa dati na tulay, kahoy lang siya, at kapag bumabaha, nawa-washout ito. Minsan, napipilitan kaming sumuong sa baha para makatawid. Ngayon, sa ongoing na tulay, malaking tulong ito sa amin dahil hindi na namin kailangang mag-alala sa pagbaha. Ang pagdaan namin ay hindi na made-delay. Sa mga estudyante, umaabsent sila kapag walang tulay kasi hindi sila makatawid. Kapag natapos na ito, tuloy-tuloy na sila at hindi na mag-aabsent o malalate,” she stated.

Once complete, the new concrete bridge will not only ensure the smooth movement of people and goods but will also serve as a vital lifeline during calamities, providing easier access for emergency services.

“Soon, the long-awaited permanent concrete bridge will be completed, addressing the residents’ concerns about disruptions caused by weather disturbances. This project reflects our commitment in building resilient infrastructure that ensures the safety and convenience of the community.” said District Engineer Alvin Ignacio. (PR)