NSSDEO, Brgy. Burabud, Laoang, N. Samar-In a concerted effort to ensure the safety and quality of road infrastructure, Maintenance Section Chief Engineer Francisco Tañala spearheaded a comprehensive rectification of road defects along the Catarman – Laoang Road last April 30, 2024, with a particular focus on addressing Code 01 issues, namely potholes.

This initiative comes in compliance with the guidelines outlined in Department Order No. 47, Series of 2024, aiming to prepare the roads for the upcoming Walk the Line Inspection scheduled on May 6, 2024, by the Bureau of Maintenance Personnel.

Recognizing the rectification process, Engr. Tañala has devised a strategic plan to systematically address the pothole problem along the Catarman-Laoang Road. The initiative involves a multi-step approach, beginning with thorough inspections to identify the extent and severity of pothole formations.

Under Engr. Tañala’s supervision, the maintenance team has adopted a systematic approach, prioritizing areas with the most pressing issues while also allocating resources efficiently. Through meticulous planning and coordination, they aim to maximize the effectiveness of their efforts within the limited timeframe leading up to the inspection.

In addition to addressing visible defects, the maintenance team emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough assessments to identify underlying issues that may compromise the structural integrity of the roads. By taking a proactive stance, the team not only meets but exceeds the standards set forth in the regulatory guidelines.

The upcoming Walk the Line Inspection represents an opportunity to evaluate the progress of the road defects rectification efforts. Engr. Tañala expresses confidence in his team’s ability to showcase substantial improvements and demonstrate a commitment to upholding the highest standards of roadway maintenance.

With a steadfast dedication to excellence, Maintenance Section Chief Engineer Francisco Tañala and his team are determined to ensure that the road defects rectification works are completed to the highest standards, setting a precedent for proactive infrastructure management and road safety initiatives.
(JOEMAR M.PATILAN, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER DESIGNATE/PR)

NSSDEO, Brgy. Burabud, Laoang, N. Samar– To ease the traffic congestion along national road network of the district, the Department of Public Works and Highways – Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH-NSSDEO) has started the Off-Carriageway Improvement, Secondary Roads, Catarman – Laoang Road, K0782+(-035.80) – K0783+573.80.

The project entails a comprehensive scope of works, including the concreting of 3,227.20 meters roadway and widening of 49 meters roadway, both sides. It also includes 56 solar LED street lights that will be installed to enhance visibility and safety along the route, with a total allocation of P30,000,000.00 under the General Appropriation Act (GAA) Fund of CY 2024.

This project is a substantial infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity and safety in the area. Thus, substantial investment underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and promoting economic development in the province of Northern Samar.

The project started on February 05, 2024, and is currently at 49.01% accomplishment as of April 03, 2024. Throughout the implementation phase, stringent timelines and quality control measures will be enforced through the supervision of Project Engineer Miriam O. Engo to ensure the timely and successful completion of the project

The completion of this off-carriageway improvement project carries huge prospects to avoid or alleviate congestion, improve accessibility, and enhance road safety in the Second District of Northern Samar. By widening the roadway and installing solar LED street lights, the project can create a safer and more efficient transportation network for residents and travelers alike.

The DPWH-NSSDEO will always be committed to promoting transparent communication and community engagement throughout the project. Regular updates and consultations will be conducted to address any concerns that may occur during the construction process.
(KHYZEL M.SOSING,PIO STAFF WRITER/PR)

In the wake of the sighting of a Chinese vessel

CATARMAN, Northern Samar– The mayor of a town in Northern Samar is appealing to the Philippine Coast Guard for assistance in monitoring the presence of foreign vessels, which may potentially exploit its marine resources, particularly fish.

Mapanas Mayor Ronn Michael Tejano’s appeal follows the recent sighting of a Chinese vessel, later identified as the ‘Shen Kou,’ a research vessel, approximately 80 nautical miles from their territorial waters.

“Having a monitoring system closer to Mapanas would greatly benefit us in promptly preparing and responding to similar incidents,” Mayor Tejano said during an interview on Tuesday (May 6).

“Considering that fishing is the primary livelihood of my constituents and neighboring Pacific towns, it’s important that their safety and protection is ensured,” he added.
Mapanas, situated along the Northern Samar coastline facing the Pacific Ocean, is a gateway for international trade and transportation, making it susceptible to the presence of foreign vessels.

Mayor Tejano said that around 3,000 residents of his town depend on fishing, with a weekly catch averaging nine tons, predominantly consisting of tuna, mackerel, and anchovies.

The local fishers operate within 10 to 15 nautical miles from the shore.
As he admitted that he had only learned about the presence of the Chinese vessel from news reports, Mayor Tejano stressed the importance of vigilant monitoring.

Coast Guard Ensign Bryhl Amay, deputy commander of the Philippine Coast Guard in Northern Samar, confirmed that their radar system detected the Chinese research vessel in the area.

He urged local fishermen to promptly report any sightings of foreign vessels, particularly if they are moving slowly, to assess their intentions.
Amay admitted the Coast Guard’s limited floating assets, relying solely on the Philippine Navy for support.

He revealed that the region’s Coast Guard only possesses one ship, the BRP Capones, stationed in Ormoc City, Leyte, where the regional headquarters is located.
According to Coast Guard reports, the Chinese vessel departed from Shenzhen Port on April 13, passing through Itbayat and Basco in Batanes on April 22 before being detected off the coast of Mapanas.

Subsequently, it was spotted near the waters of Catanduanes, where it was monitored by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.(JOEY A. GABIETA)

TACLOBAN CITY– The Samar Provincial Hospital (SPH) held a blessing ceremony on Tuesday (May 7) for its newly-renovated obstetrics and gynecology ward.

The revamped area boasts five spacious ward rooms accommodating a total of 36 patients, alongside a nurse station, doctor’s quarters, and refurbished comfort rooms, walls, and ceiling.

To enhance comfort for mothers and newborns, air conditioning units have been installed, complementing the hospital’s comprehensive newborn and maternal care services.

Governor Sharee Ann Tan underscored the significance of health service programs, expressing her commitment to improving healthcare access for the community.

“The government has a responsibility to enhance health services,” she said, acknowledging the vital role of healthcare providers in this endeavor.

She urged them to serve with patience and compassion, thereby upholding the dignity of the people.

SPH Chief of Hospital Dr. Jonathan Gabriel Paquit, for his part, said that the renovation’s eco-conscious design, emphasizes its alignment with green and climate-resilient principles.

“With this commitment, our vision for SPH’s enhancement is steadily materializing. We envision SPH as the premier healthcare provider in Samar,” he said.

Numerous initiatives are slated for implementation at SPH, aimed at bolstering healthcare services and fostering a culture of health-seeking behavior among the people of Samar, Paquit added.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)