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Region VIII - News Archive 2005 (Click
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12/31/05 |
DPWH-SAMAR COMPLETES P14.2 M. PROJECTS |
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 DPWH-SAMAR COMPLETES P14.2 M. PROJECTS
Catbalogan, Samar- the Samar 2nd Engineering District Office of the Department of Public Works & Highways (DPWH) has completed this year two public improvement projects worth P14,203,811.30.
District Engineer Pablo Z. Aragon identified these projects as: The installation of safety warning and regulatory signs and devices, along 57-kilometers length of the San Juanico Basey-South Coastal Road Section, which cost P9,493,911.30.
This portion of the national highway connects in the southern portion of Samar island, the province of Samar through the municipalities of Basey and Marabut, to Eastern Samar province, through the municipalities of Lawaan and Balangiga, then to Guiuan and Borongan, the capital town of Eastern Samar.
There is one other route of the national highway which connects also the provinces of Samar and Eastern Samar, very much older then this South Samar Coastal Road. It is the portion of the national highway which starts at Brgy. Buray, Bagacay, Hinabangan, Samar, then further eastward to Brgy. San Isidro and Malinao and the Poblacion of Taft, Eastern Samar, and subsequently to Borongan.
Aragon informed that this San Juanico-Basey South Samar Coastal Road installation of warning and regulation signs included these other phases: painting of metal beam guardrails, construction of open line canals, and resurfacing of dropped off shoulders of the roadsides at random points.
Labor for this project was provided b the residents of the 25 barangays alongside the project length, who were hired by the contractor, the ACME Builders Corp.
With the completion of this project last March 11, 2004, Aragon said the riding public enjoy now safer travel in this road section. The construction of open line canal protects the main carriageways of the highway from flooding during the rainy days. Nighttime travel is now safer and faster due to the installation of these road signage’s and markers.
The other project mentioned by Aragon which their office had recently completed is the construction/rehabilitation of the seawall and fishermen’s wharf in the municipality of Paranas.
This project was funded by the congressional fund of Rep. Sunny A.A. Madamba of the APEC Party-List.
This project was undertaken by the 2nd Engineering District Office as a result of the signing of a Memorandum Agreement between the municipality of Paranas the Engineering District Office. The project cost is P4,768,600.00. It was started January 3 and was completed on March 10, 2004.
Aragon said that the accessibility and facilities of the project are directly benefiting the fishermen families particularly the six barangays proximate to the project. One added benefit that the municipality derived from this project is the large portion of the coastline of the town is now a projected reclamation area which can be converted to a recreational and business park, Aragon said. |
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12/31/05 |
DPWH REPAIRS DRAINAGE SYSTEM |
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DPWH REPAIRS DRAINAGE SYSTEM
TACLOBAN CITY- To provide and manage quality infrastructure facilities and services responsive to the needs of the Filipino people, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to repair the drainage system along Real-Sagkahan road section here.
Eduardo Pilias, chief, planning and design section, their project prioritizes the concrete shouldering of the said section. But due to limited budget their second priority, which is the repair of the drainage system, was not finished.
The repair of the drainage system along Real-Sagkahan is the continuation of the 2001 project and this is another action taken to avoid road problems during the rainy season,” Pilias said.
Aida Lastimado, budget personnel, said that the allotted budget for this project cost P475,000 based on last year’s remaining balance to be taken from Regular Maintenance (RO AA #10461).
The equivalent maintenance cost depends on the total length road network.
Among the activities to be undertaken are excavations for structure, lined canal with cover, cleaning and reconditioning, provision for warning, signs and barricade.
The project (plan) is approved, but the bidding is on July 11, and once it’s completely approved the implementation starts 10 days after the approval” Lastimado disclosed.
It was further learned that the DPWH has various projects and more improvements of the national road in Tacloban City, particularly the Daang Maharlika Section, Picas Sn. Jose Airport Road, Leyte-Samar Road, Manlurip to McArthur, Trece Martirez to Magsaysay, and requested for funding amounting to P160 million.
The release of maintenance fund intended for the district is not enough to answer the existing needs of the national road, but if the request will be granted, it will certainly help a lot,” said Gervacio Baldos, OIC district engineer. |
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12/31/05 |
FUNDING OF PALO BYPASS ROADS RECOMMENDED |
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FUNDING OF PALO BYPASS ROADS RECOMMENDED
GOV’T. CENTER, Palo, Leyte – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office here is recommending for the prioritization and inclusion in the Official Development Assistance (ODA) funding program of the Palo bypass roads as alternates routes.
This being proposed to decongest traffic along the Tacloban-Palo section of the Pan- Philippine Highway (PPH) and give chance for the repair of the 54- year- old Bernard REED bridge located along the Maharlika section of Palo.
In the feasibility study undertaken by the DPWH PMO, two alternate roads have been considered and evaluated namely: the Palo East Bypass (Palo- Tanuan alternate road) and the Palo West Bypass road (Pawing to Jct. Palo- Carigara road).
DPWH Regional Director Jaime Pacanan, said that this is still among the dream projects of the DPWH- 8 and currently being proposed before the national government for funding.
“It’s only the fund that is hampering the implementation of the proposed projects. This project also needs foreign assistance because this cannot be realized without assistance from a funding agency. But we are looking forward for its realization soonest,” Pacanan said.
According to Pacanan, this concern has already reached the attention of the Regional Development Council (RDC) currently chaired by Southern Leyte Gov. Rosette Lerias and they already made their own representation of the project before the national government.
He said their office is also presenting representations to the big officials of the DPWH national office and the national government for the project’s realization. In fact, in his last visit to DPWH head office, Pacanan said this is already one of those being considered at the planning service of the office on how they could look for foreign funds to finance it.
“But it’s already up to the management at the central office whether or not they will give prioritization to make some representation of the project before foreign funding institutions. But as of now there is no assurance yet “ Pacanan disclosed.
The Palo East Bypass road is a 1.53 kms. road which links PPH with the San Jose-Candahug-Guindapunan road, an access road leading to DZR airport and Tacloban City and its environs. This would cater to divertible traffic from the PPH coming to/ from Tacloban City and from eastern coastal municipalities of Leyte province as well those coming from Southern Leyte and Mindanao.
While the Palo West Bypass road is a 3.66 kms. road which terminates at the Tacloban City diversion road on one side and at Palo-Carigara National road on the other end. This would cater to potential divertible traffic coming from and to western northwestern municipalities of Leyte including Ormoc City as well as those coming from Biliran province.
But to Pacanan the Palo East Bypass road is “more ideal than the west Bypass because the former would only cost the government about half of the cost the government about half the cost that would be poured for the later bypass road.
The Palo East Bypass road has an estimated cost of P89.3 million in asphalt concrete and P91.7 million if in Portland cement concrete. While the Palo West Bypass road would cost around P171.8 million in asphalt and P177.5 million if in Portland cement concrete.
Pacanan said the construction of the Palo Bypass roads would give way to the repair of the half-a-century old bridge.
According to him, the Bernard Reed Bridge now has signs of “structural defects” which could be hazardous already if the bridge’s repair would be delayed. Also the value of the repair would be very high then if it will not be given priority now.
“Though it is not yet that alarming, what we are doing now is regulate the traffic and the loading that passes by the bridge to prevent the possible aggravation of its structural defects” Pacanan said. |
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12/31/05 |
LIMASAWA YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW |
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LIMASAWA YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW
There is no official document that would lead us to understand how limasawa got its name. Varied interpretations were solicited from the among the elderly citizen but neither would qualify and serve as legal basis to satisfy the query as to its origin.
One version tells us that during the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 one of the natives, who was asked for the name of the island, mistakenly interpreted the question to mean how many wives the Rajah of the island have? He (The Native) replied “Lima’y Asawa which means “Five Wives”. From then on, the island was called Lima Asawa and later corrupted to Limasawa.
Another is that the original name of the island is “MASAWA”. Since it was the practice during the Spanish era to use prefixes to nouns as a la una, la mano, la misa, etc., hence the word Le Mazaua for Limasawa. However , the most valuable piece of official document that would reflect sufficient historical back-ground and information about the island is Antonio Pigafetta’s complete account of Magellan Expedition entitled “PRIMO VIAGGO INTORNO AL MONDO” (First Voyage Around the World). He was a member of the expedition and was therefore an eyewitness of the principal events that took place in the course of Magellan’s voyage, including the historic “First Mass Celebration” of the Philippines soil.
Today, arguments and historical disputes as to the actual site of the First Mass Celebration in the Philippines between Limasawa in Southern Leyte and Masao in Butuan City still persisted for about a century. Both claimed credit on the important event in the history of the Philippines that marked the birth of Christianity in the country. Such dispute was even more intense as it was elevated to congress for legislative actions. Historical documents and evidences were presented to prove their claims to be in their favor. Nonetheless, Limasawa emerged victorious in the end. No less than, the Philippine Congress catapulted Limasawa to the fore, courtesy of R.A. 2733 of 1950.
On June 11, 1978 Presidential Decree 1949 was issued creating the Municipality of Limasawa in the Province of Southern Leyte. Proclamation No. 890 duly signed by President Aquino on March 17, 1989, was issued to set the date for the holding of a plebiscite to decide the creation of the Municipality of Limasaw. Later, on the 27th of august 1989 the duly appointed municipal officials were conducted to office in a simple but solemn oath taking ceremony.
Despite Limasawa ‘s gained recognition and stature as the site of the first mass celebration in the Philippines yet her (Limasawa) development not as a town but as a very significant place in the country seems too slow, bereft of special care and attention by the National Government which she deserved. Local leaders came to her rescue did she started to spring forth for improvement. Circumferencial roads were constructed to connect the six barangays comprising the island. School buildings were built to cater the educational needs of the students. Likewise, municipal building , hospital and other vital infrastructure facilities were erected to address to its various usage and purposes. Today, the National Government has taken its part to shape the youthful town of Limasawa. It has poured in funds in the form of government projects thru the initiatives of the leaders of the province. The DPWH was the responsible agency for most of the projects constructed around Limasawa.
Three years later, DOTC-Funded project, the construction of Limasawa Port Phase I worth Two Million Pesos was implemented by the DPWH. Despite difficulties encountered during the course of implementation, from procurement and delivery of construction materials from mainland to Limasawa Island via chartered barge and pump boats , coupled with the unforgiving harsh weather conditions and rough seas yet the project was completed as scheduled.
There is but little impact to the Limasawa Port Project as of this time, since it is in its primary phase of construction, the construction of 581 square meters of causeway. However, should sufficient fund be available to offset its completion, then it would be very possible that the growth of the island would be enhanced. One could imagine the influx of tourists coming from the corners of the globe to satisfy their thirst for curiosity to see and re-live the historic island for a while.
Then President Fidel V. Ramos officially declared Limasawa a Tourist Zone thru Republic Act 7822. The island is a good Scuba Diving Area and one of the finest dive sites in the world as declared by the personnel of the Department of Agriculture and Department of Tourism who did an actual diving survey in 1998. Their observations was confirmed later by German Diving Instructor Gunter Mosch who owns and operates Southern Leyte’s Top Dive Resort in Padre Burgos, a 45-minute ride by motor boat (pump boat) from the island.
There is much to be done for improvement as far as Limasawa is concerned. Let our leaders be united and together in unison sing for the brighter future of the historic island considered by many as the country’s landmark of Christianity. |
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12/31/05 |
BURAUEN-ALBUERA ROAD NEW ROAD, MORE INCOME |
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BURAUEN-ALBUERA ROAD NEW ROAD, MORE INCOME
In the past, the construction of the Burauen-Albuera road was like an impossible dream to the barangay folks along this road. The Burauen-Albuera road was once a heavily forested area where means of transportation was only thru horse back riding. Barangay folks from Albuera had to travel for two (2) to three (3) days before they could reach the town proper of Burauen to buy their supplies and /or market their farm products.
The concept of constructing a road along this section was initiated by the Philippines National Oil Company (PNOC) in 1980’s while in search for possible geothermal power in the area. It was then that motorcycle transportation started to ply through this rugged and unmaintained road. When the PNOC abandoned their project for unknown reasons the DPWH Leyte Second Engineering District, then a newly created district, started the detailed engineering of the proposed road for possible funding under the Congressional Initiative of former Cong. Sergio A.F. Apostol of the Second Cong. District of Leyte. Initially, the project was intended to provide access to the far flung barangays along this mountainous area to the trading center of Burauen. As time passed, clamor for convenient roads become strong.
Thus, the DPWH 2nd LED conceptualized constructing roads that will connect the nearest municipality which is Albuera, which could serve as an alternate route to the municipalities nearby Albuera to the city of Ormoc. Aside from improving the transport service, this road will also improve the living standard of the people along this route. It will also cut travel time and expense from Tacloban City to Ormoc City by passing through Burauen-Albuera Road.
At present, the once thick forested and inaccessible area is now a 7.0 m wide gravel surface road which provides easy transport from the town proper of Burauen to the farthest barangay of Villa Corazon. The barangay folks hope that when the project is completed it will be accessible to all kinds of vehicle. In the meantime, the agency has Ten Million Pesos (10,000,000.00) for the on-going construction of this road section under Phase I. As of March 21, 2005 it registered 58.9% physical accomplishment . It is projected that by June 01, 2005 the project will be completed. |
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12/31/05 |
INAUGURATION OF CAMPOKPOK – MASISI ROAD |
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INAUGURATION OF CAMPOKPOK – MASISI ROAD
The Campokpok – Masisi Road project located at Tabango, Leyte was inaugurated in March 22, 2005. The project under Infra Program LH – CY 2003 was supervised by DPWH, Leyte Third District Engineering Office.
The formal road opening/ribbon cutting was graced by Congressman of the 3rd District of Leyte, Cong. Eduardo “Lining” K. Veloso with his wife Marie Therese “Maita” Veloso. Also in attendance were our District Engineer, Jose P. Aguilar, Jr. Assistant District Engineer Leopoldo L. Pica, D.M., together with the office staff and personnel.
The construction of Campokpok – Masisi Road started September 24, 2004 with R. Allosa Construction & Trucking Services as Contractor. Program of work included the construction of 2.4m X 10m. Box culvert/overpass, concrete stairs with handrail; construction of 60 Lin.m. concrete line ditch; construction of 72 Lin.m. concrete guardrail and construction of 184 cu.m. grouted riprap with a duration of 90 Calendar Days costing P2,021,939.47. Said project was completed December 22, 2004.
The completion of this Road will encourage our farmers to produce more farm products for it will result in easier and cheaper transportation cost. It is now safely serving the constituents in the area; enjoying ease and comfort to the traveling public particularly for the school children. |
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12/31/05 |
DPWH-8 CHIEF SUPPORTS ANTI-CORRUPTION DRIVE |
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DPWH-8 CHIEF SUPPORTS ANTI-CORRUPTION DRIVE
Department of Public Works & Highways (DPWH) Region 8 OIC Director Jaime A. Pacanan expressed his commitment to support the government's anti-corruption drive and erase the stigma of being included in the top list of the most corrupt government agencies.
Pacanan made this commitment in front of officials and employees of the different District Engineering Offices in the Eastern Visayas Region during the recent regional monthly staff meeting held at the Philippine National Oil Company's multi-purpose building in Tongonan, Ormoc City.
Pacanan explained that the problem of graft and corruption is universal and as such, is not unique to DPWH. He admitted they cannot eradicate the problem but can only minimize it. Nevertheless, the central office has made the anti-graft campaign a priority by instituting administrative reforms to combat corruption within the ranks.
Pacanan explained that DPWH has improved its internal audit system. Also, an Integrity Board has been created to act on complaints .
Moreover, Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act was implemented which requires the electronic purchase of materials, goods supplies and services. The system of screening of eligible contractors is also being reviewed to assure that only qualified companies can join public biddings.
Aside from graft and corruption, Pacanan said that the central office is reviewing the policies and regulations of the Civil Service Commission to address the problem of absenteeism and tardiness among employees.
Moreover, Department Order 153 was issued which calls for the implementation of austerity measures. The order mandates a 10% reduction of non-permanent workers and enjoins the employees to save on electricity, water and fuel, and to limit travels. Attendance in meetings and conference will be limited only to those that entail no expenses. |
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12/31/05 |
TRAFFIC ADVISORY REPAIR OF CAGLANIPAO BRIDGE |
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TRAFFIC ADVISORY REPAIR OF CAGLANIPAO BRIDGE
The Department of Public Works and Highways will undertake repair of Caglanipao Bridge in Brgy. Caglanipao, Calbayog City. Located along Allen-Calbayog Road, the bridge has developed signs of wear and tear due to old age.
DPWH Region 8 Director JAIME A. PACANAN is advising motorists and traveling public to take the following traffic guidelines at the CAGLANIPAO Bridge effective 29 August 2005:
(1 1. Vehicular traffic at the bridge continues to be allowed BUT limitation is imposed for vehicles up to FIVE (5) tons in weight;
(2 2. Heavy/loaded cargo vehicles will have to depart from Matnog Port, Sorsogon to Maginoo Port, Calbayog City;
3. Passenger buses MUST unload their passengers BEFORE crossing the bridge
(4 4. Vehicles from Catarman should pass the Catarman – Calbayog – via Lope de Vega Route.
DPWH appeals to motorists and general public to bear with the temporary inconvenience and follow the advisory in order to avoid happening of untoward incidents. The DPWH is exerting utmost efforts to finish the work soonest. |
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12/31/05 |
NAPC, MOTIONG LGU CELEBRATE KALAHI DAY |
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NAPC, MOTIONG LGU CELEBRATE KALAHI DAY
Motoing, Samar – the Department of Public Works & Highways Region 8 prominently figured in the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) celebration of Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan (KALAHI) Community Day in Motoing, Samar during the observance of the National Week for Overcoming Extreme Poverty from Oct. 17 to 23, 2004.
Constancio Pacanan, Jr., Municipal Mayor, said that the highlights of the said affair was the awarding, distribution and presentation of programs and services involved in poverty alleviation of different government agencies particularly DPWH, PCSO, NEDAM TESDA, DENR, DA, DSWD, AFP/PNP and DOH.
Motiong before was not one of the recipients of the KALAHI Program. It is considered 5th class municipality with no good water supply to the consuming public but through KALAHI and the efforts of different agencies, we are expecting to alleviate poverty problem in our town,” Mayor Pacanan said.
Further, in an interview with the DPWH-8 OIC Regional Director Jaime Pacanan, he said that DPWH-8 is supporting Motiong in program implementation and giving of services.
“Under 2003 program for flood and drainage control, we already allocated a budget of P103,000.00. A fund of P550,000 is also reserved to finish the national road recovery in Motiong. Also, a P124,000 continuing fund from then2004 regional allocation fund is intended for maintenance of flood and drainage control program, RD Pacanan explained.
He further added that the first two projects stated is expected to be finished not later the December this year.
Moreover, the Office of Presidential Assistant for Eastern Visayas Victor A. Domingo implemented a five strategy approach to eradicate poverty. Among the five are the human resource development and jobs which the people demanded.
DOLE Regional Director Forter Pugoun also presented the programs and services of DOLE using the four strategy approach. This include employment generation (6-10 million jobs within the 6-year service of PGMA) employment facilitation (opening of job fairs), employment preservation and enhancing working condition in every workplace.
The Department of Land Reform through PARO Marlu Merin also presented the contribution their office could offer with a 61 land titles awarded to 306 farmer beneficiaries in collaboration with DENR, registry of deeds and the local government office.
Among the recipients of this are the municipality of Motoing, Jiabong, Paranas, Catbalogan and Villareal. The land is 560 hectares which the authorized owners should not sell within 10 years unless fully paid by the Landbank,” Merin said.
Merin added that the said owners are entitled to an obligation of tax payment, declaration on the municipal assessor and the amortization payment to the Landbank
In addition, Department of Agriculture distributed free seedlings and BFAR the fingerlings. The AFP also gave their medical and dental mission to the public.
Around 136 recipients who attended the KALAHI community day celebration benefited the free services extended by the participating government agencies.
A magic showcase has been performed by a member of the Philippine Army to add more fun.
RD Pacanan presenting to the people of Motiong, Samar the programs and projects of DPWH-8 in support to the KALAHI.
RD Pacanan in a huddle with LGU Officials together with DE Pablo Z. Aragon, Jr. of 2nd Samar Engineering District Office, Catbalogan, Samar.
Various activities and services offered during the KALAHI Day at Motiong, Samar by the different National Government Agencies. |
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12/31/05 |
ILLEGAL STRUCTURES ON ROAD SHOULDERS DENOUNCED |
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ILLEGAL STRUCTURES ON ROAD SHOULDERS DENOUNCED
The construction of illegal structures along the road-right-of-way (RROW) was cited by the Department of Public Works & Highways (DPWH) as one of the major problems in the implementation of infrastructure projects in Eastern Visayas.
DPWH-8 OIC Regional Director Jaime A. Pacanan said that the presence of illegally constructed structures is the most common violation of RROW, prohibiting the construction of concrete and temporary houses within the 20 meters RROW limits.
Pacanan said that aside from houses, there are also construction of concrete and temporary fences, and concrete flower posts in road sides.
In a research study of Pacanan, it showed that in preliminary engineering stage, construction stage, and evaluation stage, the presence of illegal structures was a “strongly felt violation,” which delays infrastructure development.
“This greatly affects the preparation of the feasibility study of the proposed project resulting to the delayed release of funds. It has something to do with the effectiveness of the project in attaining its desired goals and objectives,” he lamented.
This “perennial” problem in the implementation of infrastructure projects have been existing for many years now, according to the DPWH regional chief.
“Usually the dwellers do not like to vacate the place they illegally occupy for fear that they have no place to transfer to or to resettle.” Pacanan stressed.
He said that encroachment is actually observed along the Samar-Leyte road most particularly from Tacloban City to Catbalogan, Samar where squatters construct houses and fences along the shoulders and edge of pavement of national roads without permits.
The DPWH regional office, however, has no record showing the number of illegal structures on the shoulders of national roads in Eastern Visayas.
“Private landowners have the knowledge that they are encroaching already government property but considering that DPWH has no police power, prevention of such violation was not curtailed, “Pacanan pointed out.
He also lamented that there is a lack of coordination among government agencies whoa re mandated to “preclude” such violation.
Pacanan suggested that the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in coordination with DPWH should issue a memorandum circular addressed to all government officials in towns and barangays and other concerned institutions, for the “removal of obstructions and encroachments within the right of way of national roads within their areas of responsibility.”
The DPWH regional chief proposed that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) shall coordination with their office in the tree planting activities within the limits of RROW that would serve as “demarcation of the RROW limits.”
“Local government officials should be strict in monitoring and issuance of building permits specially those to be erected near the boundary of road shoulders,” he pointed out.
Pacanan also suggested that especially those with “police power” should help the DPWH in removing all encroachments on streets, sidewalks and highways which obstruct free passage of vehicles. |
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12/31/05 |
P2.3B WORTH OF INFRA PROJECTS IN REGION 8 IN 2005 |
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P2.3B WORTH OF INFRA PROJECTS IN REGION 8 IN 2005
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to implement P2.3 billion worth of infrastructure projects in Eastern Visayas Region next year.
According to DPWH-Region 8 OIC-Director Jaime Pacanan, the amount of P2.07 billion under the proposed P2.3 billion allocation will be used as counterpart fund for foreign assisted projects while about P297 million will be utilized to finance on-going and proposed locally funded public works projects.
DPWH Assistant Secretary Rafael C. Yabut, in-charge of operations in the Visayas, hopes that enough funds would be available for the DPWH to carry out implementation of much-needed infrastructure projects in Eastern Visayas.
Needed counterpart funds for foreign assisted infrastructure projects in Region 8 are as follows: Leyte, P275.5 million; Southern Leyte, P491.7 million; Biliran, P14.7 million; Samar, P812.5 million; Eastern Samar, P116 million; and Northern Samar, P364.6 million.
The national government has failed last year to release substantial amount of counterpart funds for the road project from Calbiga, Samar to Allen, Northern Samar because of financial problem.
This year, DPWH has again proposed in the CY 2005 budget a substantial amount for the Samar road project that is being funded by a loan agreement with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).
From Calbayog City to Allen in Northern Samar, at least P486.4 million counterpart fund is needed while the road from Calbiga, Samar to Calbayog City requires some P250.9 million.
Region 8 has 10 foreign-assisted infrastructure projects, 7 of which are funded by JBIC while the remaining 3 are under loans with the United Kingdom and Austrian governments.
Under the policy of foreign lending institutions, loan amount must have a counterpart fund from the Philippine government before it would be implemented.
Two major on-going locally funded projects, the old Catarman Bridge in Northern Samar and the Gandara Bridge in Samar, also needs additional funding to complete. |
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12/31/05 |
FIRST HALF INFRA ACCOMPLISHMENTS UP IN REGION 8 |
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FIRST HALF INFRA ACCOMPLISHMENTS UP IN REGION 8
Infrastructure accomplishments in Eastern Visayas Region for the first half of 2004 has reached more than 43 percent boosting President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s decentralized progress agenda, the government’s infrastructure arm Department of Public Works and Highways reported.
In his report to DPWH Secretary Florante Soriquez and DPWH Assistant Secretary Rafael C. Yabut, in-charge of operations in the Visayas, DPWH Region 8 OIC-Director Jaime Pacanan said that a total of 1,129 infrastructure projects were completed between the periods of January to June 2004 with an accomplishment rate of 43.69 percent.
The agency’s target to accomplish for that period was 43.61 percent therefore gaining a positive slippage of 0.08 percent.
Yabut said that the first half accomplishment of DPWH Region 8 is eight projects more than the year-round accomplishment of 1,121 in CY 2003.
DPWH Region 8 has a total program amount of P2.18 billion for the implementation of 2,413 projects. Funds for these projects are sourced from the DPWH regular program, Office of the President, Upper House Projects, Party-list projects, Department of Education school building program, General Agreement on Tariff and Trade, among others.
Pacanan said that of the remaining 1,284 projects for implementation for 2004, 376 are on-going while the rest are yet to commence as funds intended to finance the projects are not yet released.
However, Soriquez is optimistic that more projects will be completed in Region 8 as soon as the Department of Budget and Management releases substantial amounts of funds.
Other projects funded through a loan agreement like the repair/rehabilitation of the 2.79 kilometers San Juanico Bridge and improvement of the 46 kilometers Calbiga-San Juanico Bridge section of the Philippine-Japan Friendship Highway are substantially completed. |
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12/31/05 |
RECONSTRUCTION OF “OLD CATARMAN BRIDGE HALF-COMPLETE |
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RECONSTRUCTION OF “OLD CATARMAN BRIDGE HALF-COMPLETE
The Old Cataraman Bridge is already 50 percent complete.
DPWH Region 8 Director Jaime Pacanan said that half of the project’s phase I is about to be finished and preparations are being made for the next phase.
Phase I, which was started in 2001, involved “sub-structure” works to include board-pilling abutment and crane ways.
The job was awarded to the Tacloban-based Yakal Constructions in supervision by the DPWH Regional Office.
“We are working out for the contractor to expedite the completion of Phase 1. It is almost substantially completed,” Pacanan said, explaining that the constructions were delayed due to a problem in the transportation of equipments.
The Old Catarman Bridge used to be the shortest channel for people mostly students going to and from the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP). It is also the main gateway for trucks, buses, tricycles and other vehicles to and from the province’s second district. But in 1995 the bridge was found to be “rotten and old”, the reason why it was totally closed even to pedestrians. Commuters today spend more time and money taking the 5-kilometer diversion road to reach the other side of the bridge.
Attempts by the DPWH to repair the old bridge proved to be futile. It was decided that a new design of the bridge should be “reconstructed” in place of the old one.
An inspectorate team from the DPWH Regional Office recently conducted an inventory on the extent of accomplishment done by the Yakal Construction on the Catarman Bridge. It is on the inventory that the program of work for Phase II will be based.
According to Pacanan, they expect to complete the said program of work by August this year, after which they will immediately bid out Phase II to finally complete the reconstruction of Catarman Bridge.
Pacanan said that construction works for Phase II, which has a budget of about P52 million, is “easier” and is more likely to consume a shorter working time, as it involved “super-structure” works.
Only light vehicles will be allowed to pass the bridge once its reconstruction is completed. |
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12/31/05 |
106th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION |
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106th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
The opening of games held 2 June 2004 with the different teams/clusters participating is shown in the above photos. Their respective Division/District Office Chiefs acted as Team Managers.
OIC Director Jaime A. Pacanan together with his Staff and Personnel during the 3 kilometers morning walk around the Government Center at Baras, Palo, Leyte.
A Holy Mass officially opened the activities of the day.
The Commemorative Program has just started: above photo are the DPWH-8 officials and employees listening to the Opening Remarks of Engr. Ireneo Purificacion; ROEA President: the organization that successfully manage the affair. Notice the “festive mood” that generally characterized the 106th DPWH-8 Anniversary Celebration.
The Orange Team pose for a souvenir picture with Team Manager
ARD for Construction Operations Celso Z. Lumaniog.
OIC Director Jaime A. Pacanan awards a Certificate of Recognition to District Engineer Jose Lino P. Aguilar, Jr. of Leyte 3rd Engineering District who placed first in the Regional Level Annual Quality Control Performance Rating.
Prelude to the night’s disco, the ladies did “Hataw” early in the afternoon. |
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12/31/05 |
DPWH OPERATION “ZERO” POTHOLES INTENSIFIED IN REGION VIII |
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DPWH OPERATION “ZERO” POTHOLES INTENSIFIED IN REGION VIII
In compliance with Sec. Soriquez instructions, OIC-RD Jaime A. Pacanan directed the District Engineers of the different District Engineering Offices of DPWH Region VIII to go full swing in “zero” potholes operations.
At present, patching of potholes on concrete pavement of national roads are being intensified to maintain and keep the roadways passable, and to provide motorist smooth and comfortable travel. Patching materials used ranges from surface course materials to bituminous premix. In addition, unpaved shoulders and gravel roadways shall be reshaped along these roads.
On-going patching of concrete pavement using bituminous premix along Daang Maharlika.
On-going patching of concrete pavement along Daang Maharlika. |
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12/31/05 |
DPWH NEEDS P2.3 B FOR INFRA PROJECTS IN YEAR 2005 |
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DPWH NEEDS P2.3 B FOR INFRA PROJECTS IN YEAR 2005
A funding of at least P2.3 Billion was proposed by the Department of Public Works and Highways to finance various major infrastructure projects in Eastern Visayas in 2005. Records of the DPWH Regional Office here showed that the amount would be used as counterpart fund of 10 foreign-assisted projects in the region.
It was also gathered that infrastructure projects in Leyte need a counterpart funding of P275.5 Million; Southern Leyte, P491.7 Million; Biliran, P14.7 Million; Samar P812.5 Million; Eastern Samar, P116 Million and Northern Samar, P346.6 Million.
A total fund of P297 Million was proposed by the agency for locally-funded bridge and road projects. This includes project that are on-going as well as newly proposed which requires funding for completion.
DPWH-Region 8 OIC-Director Jaime A. Pacanan said that some of these funds were already proposed by the DPWH Regional Office last year, but was not approved due to budgetary constraint.
Recently, the Eastern Visayas Regional Development Council (RDC) has endorsed to the national government the approval of the proposed funding requirements for all infrastructure projects in the region.
Pacanan expressed optimism that the central office will honor the endorsement of the RDC since these projects were carefully studied and deliberated on by concerned sub-committees of RDC-8.
Last year, DPWH had asked the national government to put up a counterpart of the multi-billion foreign funded road project from Calbiga, Samar to Allen, Northern Samar, but the national government has failed to release the amount because of budget deficit.
This year, DPWH has again included the counterpart amount of the Philippine government for the Samar road project that is being funded by the Japan for International Cooperation (JBIC) through a loan.
“We recommended this counterpart fund in the 2005 budget. We are being assured that this will be considered for next year’s fund as a response to the clamor to rehabilitate the road.” Pacanan said.
If the Samar road project will be implemented, these would be the major projects in Eastern Visayas next year.
For the rehabilitation of the road from Calbayog City to Allen, Northern Samar, at least P486.4 Million counterpart is requires, while the Calbiga, Samar to Calbayig City would need a P250.0 Million counterpart.
Records disclosed that out of the 10 foreign-funded projects in Eastern Visayas, seven would be funded by the JBIC, while three other projects are funded by loans granted by the governments of the United Kingdom and Austria.
Under the policy of foreign lending institutions, a loan amount must have a counterpart from the Philippine government before it would be implemented.
The two major locally funded projects in the region are the Old Catarman Bridge in Catarman, Northern Samar and the Gandara, Samar. The repairs of these bridges are ongoing projects and additional funding is needed for the completion of the projects next year. |
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12/31/05 |
DPWH ROAD PATCHING PROJECT TO BE COMPLETED BY DECEMBER |
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DPWH ROAD PATCHING PROJECT TO BE COMPLETED BY DECEMBER
Motiong, Samar – without funds for road rehabilitation, the Department of Public Works & Highways (DPWH) Second Samar Engineering District Office is now patching road ruts along 64-kilometer section of the national highway from Calbiga to Catbalogan towns in Samar.
District Engineer Pablo Z. Aragon of the Second Samar Engineering District said that is one of the palliative measures they are now undertaking to somehow reduce the travel time in the road section from approximately one hour and four minutes to only one hour.
The road section from Calbiga to Catbalogan has been known for its cracks and potholes. “As per inventory, this road section is the most critical in the second district of Samar,’ said Aragon who attended the launching of the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan (KALAHI), an anti-poverty program.
The patching of road ruts initiated by the Engineering District Office is expected to be completed before the year ends. Fund is being sourced out from the DPWH regular maintenance allocation.
“We are implementing maintenance efforts to improve the surface of the road for the meantime that the total rehabilitation has not yet commenced.”
According to DPWH, Samar national highway is the oldest concrete pavement in Eastern Visayas, having been constructed way back in 1970s.
“Cracks of the pavement occurs gradually. The road is beyond economic repair, general rehabilitation work is needed, “ Aragon said.
To prevent further deterioration, the DPWH is now covering potholes of the road with limestones.
In a separate interview, Jaime Pacanan, DPWH-8 OIC Regional Director, said the eastern Visayas Regional Development (RDC) recently endorsed to the national government the putting up of some P800 million counterpart to the multi-billion peso loan from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) intended for repair of national road from Calbiga to Allen, Northern Samar.
“Considering that the RDC has already passed the proposed Philippine government counterpart, definitely by next year, this project will be realized, Pacanan said.
Rehabilitation of the damaged Samar road has been the clamor not only by the
Samarnons but also of travelers from other parts of the region and in Luzon and Mindanao.
Road Potholes Patching with limstones along Calbiga-Catbalogan, Samar |
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