By Nimfa Estrellado The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Calabarzon has initiated repair work on sections of Daang Maharlika i...
 |
| The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Calabarzon has initiated repair work on sections of Daang Maharlika in Quezon province, specifically in Pagbilao, Atimonan, and Calauag. These areas have suffered damage due to persistent heavy rainfall, impacting the vital national highway. (DPWH Regional Office No. IV-A) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon – After months of relentless rain and deteriorating road conditions, relief is finally in sight for drivers in Quezon Province. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Calabarzon is tackling much-needed repairs along Daang Maharlika, focusing on sections in Pagbilao, Atimonan, and Calauag that have been hardest hit by the prolonged wet weather.
However, motorists are advised that these essential repairs will likely cause some delays and require extra vigilance behind the wheel. Persistent moderate to heavy rainfall caused by the shear line since November 2024 has taken its toll, particularly in Pagbilao and the Atimonan-Calauag section. These stretches have long been classified as "beyond routine maintenance" (BRM) areas due to their sustained deteriorated state.
According to Arianne Apellido, regional public information officer (RPIO) of DPWH 4A, a significant portion of the highway requires rehabilitation. "Currently, 9.37% of Daang Maharlika, spanning 20.67 kilometers is categorized as being in bad condition and 14.60% of the road that covers 32.19 kilometers is classified as being in poor condition," Apellido stated.
To address these urgent issues, the 1st and 4th Engineering Districts of Quezon have been diligently implementing both temporary and palliative measures to minimize disruptions and ensure road safety. These efforts include continuous pothole patching even during rainy periods, rotomilling, and rehabilitating severely damaged asphalt sections.
Apellido further revealed that DPWH has scheduled 44 additional road rehabilitation projects along Daang Maharlika for this year, including portions in Batangas province. "The agency remains committed to maintaining these critical roadways. Your safety and convenience are our priority, and we are working to ensure smooth traffic flow along these vital routes," Apellido emphasized.
This concentrated effort to improve Daang Maharlika represents part of a larger DPWH initiative to enhance national roads across the country. In Southern Leyte, a 6.67-kilometer section of the highway connecting Bdry. Southern Leyte-Maasin-Macrohon-Sogod-Jct. Daang Maharlika is undergoing a widening project. This involves constructing an additional 3.35-meter-wide carriageway on both sides, transforming it into a four-lane highway.
The project also includes provisions for drainage and slope protection. DPWH Region 8 Director Edgar B. Tabacon reported to Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan that the project has an 80.6 percent accomplishment rate and is on track for completion in the first quarter of 2025. The DPWH is mandated to provide safe and efficient infrastructure.
These projects aim to boost economic activity and improve the quality of life for residents and travelers alike. Road rehabilitation is a key priority for the DPWH, and the agency is investing in long-term solutions to address the challenges posed by aging infrastructure and increasingly severe weather patterns. The DPWH appreciates the public's understanding and cooperation as they carry out these necessary road maintenance and rehabilitation activities.
No comments