The traffic congestion along the national road network in Northern Samar Second District has noticeably eased following the completion of the road widening project along Palapag-Mapanas-Gamay-Lapinig (PAMAGALA) Road.
The Department of Public Works and Highways – Northern Samar Second District Engineering Office (DPWH-NSSDEO) wrapped up the project under Contract ID No. 24II0018, with a total contract amount of P29,862,134.72, delivering on its promise of brighter, safer, and more accessible roads for the local communities.
Funded by the General Appropriations Act of 2024, the project was supervised by DPWH-NSSDEO Project Engineer Carlos Paulo G. Perfecto.
The comprehensive scope of the project included the concreting and widening of 838.00 meters of roadway and the installation of 44 solar LED street lights, aimed at improving both infrastructure and safety measures along the route.
As of August 2024, the project has achieved full completion. This milestone reflects the diligent efforts of DPWH-NSSDEO in collaboration with KT Chan Construction. The roadway, extending from K0805+836 to K0806+200, now features expanded left and right lanes, providing a smoother and safer passage for motorists.
The installation of solar LED street lights has also been finalized, greatly enhancing nighttime visibility. These energy-efficient lighting solutions not only improve road safety but also align with broader environmental sustainability goals.
Local residents have already begun to see the benefits of the completed project. Habal-habal driver, John Andrew, who frequently transports goods through the PAMAGALA Road, shared his positive experience. “Nag-dedeliver po ako ng manok simula Palapag hanggang Gamay. Dati po ang hirap bumiyahe nang madilim tapos ‘yung kalsada masikip pero ngayon ’yung kalsada lumawak tapos lumiwanag na, ang ganda! Ang ganda na bumiyahe kahit gabi, wala nang problema…Dati kapag ang manok tumitigas na tapos namamaho, hindi na nila kinukuha kaya marami ring nasasayang na manok. Pero ngayon wala na simula nung lumawak yung kalsada tapos bumilis yung biyahe, okay na dahil hindi na nila binabalik yung manok. Salamat sa DPWH.” [I deliver chicken from Palapag to Gamay.
Before, it was difficult to travel during nighttime, and the road was narrow, but now the road has been widened and illuminated, it’s wonderful! Traveling at night is so much better, with no issues. Previously, when the chicken became stiff and started to smell, they don’t accept it anymore, which led to a lot of wasted chicken. But now, since the road has been widened and the travel is faster, it’s all good because they no longer reject the chicken. Thank you to DPWH.]
According to John Andrew, the completion of this project has made a huge difference for him. His deliveries are now on time, and he feels much safer driving through the area at night because of the newly installed solar LED street lights. This improvement is a big boost for both his business and his safety.
The DPWH-NSSDEO continues to prioritize enhancing transportation infrastructure, ensuring that Northern Samar Second District experiences improved connectivity and economic growth.(PR)
