TACLOBAN CITY – The Joint Task Force 8 – End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JTF8-ELCAC) has approved a resolution endorsing the proposed “unity road” project to the Regional Development Council (RDC) 8, aiming to boost connectivity and economic growth in Samar Island.
The meeting, presided over by Department of Education Secretary Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, JTF8-ELCAC chairperson, and Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) 8, was attended by key government officials, including Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan; Rep. Stephen James Tan of 1st district; 8th Infantry Division Commander MGen Adonis Ariel Orio; Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Regional Director Atty. Darwin Bibar; National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Assistant Regional Director Atty. Jam Colas, city and municipal mayors in Samar, and representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP) 8, Philippine Coast Guard, and other member agencies.
The unity road is a flagship project proposed by the three governors of Samar Island to interconnect the provinces of Samar, Eastern Samar, and Northern Samar. It aims to open economic opportunities in interior communities; provide better and faster accessibility for motorists and farm products; improve emergency and disaster response; and address insurgency issues in the region
Five of the proposed road projects are in Samar province, including Matuguinao-Silvino Lobos Road; Matuguinao-Las Navas Road; Calbayog-Bobon Road; San Jose de Buan-Maslog Road; San Jose de Buan-Las Navas Road; and Calbiga-Borongan Road.
These roads have a total length of 181.17 kilometers and require an estimated budget of P11.19 billion.
Secretary Angara pledged his support in lobbying for the project’s funding at the national level, recognizing its importance in fostering economic growth and security.
Meanwhile, the RDC 8 also committed to helping the three Samar provinces by endorsing the project to relevant agencies to secure funding.
The Unity Road project is expected to transform Samar Island by improving connectivity, security, and development, paving the way for long-term progress in Eastern Visayas.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
