Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio L. Singson has directed the strict adherence to DPWH policy in preserving historic sites and structures in all its projects nationwide.
Secretary Singson said that these historic sites and structures are of historical value, therefore, they must be preserved.
“We have to preserve these historic sites and structures for the young generation to learn from our past,” said Secretary Singson.
“In order to avoid unnecessary delays, revisions, and alterations during the construction period, the preservation of these historical sites and structures should have been considered during the conduct of feasibility study or planning phase of the project development,” added Singson.
Pursuant to DPWH Department Order no. 243 dated 26 November 1991 signed by then Secretary Jose P. de Jesus, he reminded all DPWH Regional Directors, Project Directors, District Engineers and planning engineers to coordinate closely with the National Historical Institute, the National Museum and the National Commission on Culture and the Arts in the identification and preservation of these historical sites and monuments or any structure of historical value to avoid unwarranted demolitions or destructions.
Secretary Singson’s directive was prompted by the issue raised by concerned citizens who expressed opposition to a proposed road widening project in the town proper of Sariaya, Quezon where there are existing heritage ancestral houses.
DPWH Region IV-A Director Huillio Belleza, however, said that there is no proposed road widening within the town proper of Sariaya, particularly, along General Luna Street.
The on-going road widening activities are, however, located before and after the Sariaya town proper at Barangay Sampaloc II and Barangay Balubal, reported Belleza.