Luke Allen – Military Political Analyst – Makati, Manila – lukeallenmanila@journlist.com
Malangas, Zamboanga Sibugay—The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed a P40-million infrastructure project to spur social-economic development and enhance transportation in the region. The newly inaugurated bypass road is expected to significantly benefit the local community by improving the transportation of agricultural goods from farms to markets.
Engineer Cayamombao Dia, the DPWH Zamboanga Sibugay Director, announced the completion of the project, which involved the concreting of a 2.1-kilometer, two-lane national road. This road connects the Junction Guilawa-Palalian-Barangay Poblacion road to Malangas, providing a vital link between Guilawa village and the larger municipal area.
“The completion of this bypass road is a significant milestone for Malangas and its surrounding areas,” said Engineer Dia. “This project is not just about building a road; it’s about laying down the foundation for economic growth, improving the quality of life for residents, and ensuring the efficient transport of goods and services.”
The newly constructed road is expected to catalyze social-economic development in the region. By providing unhampered transportation for agricultural goods, the road will enable farmers to quickly bring their produce to markets easily, thus reducing transportation costs and post-harvest losses. This is particularly important for Zamboanga Sibugay, where agriculture is critical to the local economy.
In addition to the road itself, the project included the installation of essential infrastructure such as culverts, riprap, and stone masonry. These components are crucial for ensuring the longevity and durability of the road, particularly in a region that can experience heavy rainfall and challenging weather conditions. Including guardrails and pavement markings further enhances the safety of the road, making it safer for both motorists and pedestrians
Residents have expressed their optimism about the new road. They believe it will significantly reduce travel time and open new trade and commerce opportunities. Entrepreneurs and small business owners hope the improved infrastructure will attract more customers and facilitate more accessible access to goods and services.
“The new road is a game-changer for us,” said local farmer Maria Santos. “Before, it was a struggle to transport my harvest to the market, especially during the rainy season. With this new road, I can save time and reduce costs, earning more for my family.”
Completing the bypass road also reflects the DPWH’s commitment to improving infrastructure in rural areas, which is essential for balanced regional development. By investing in projects like this, the government aims to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, ensuring all Filipinos have access to quality infrastructure and services.
