The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has launched a series of nationwide consultations aimed at strengthening regional collaboration and improving national road maintenance practices. These efforts are part of the agency’s initiative to update and enhance the Philippine Highway Maintenance Management Manual (PHMMM).
On its fourth series, simultaneous consultations are ongoing in CAR, Regions 1, 2, and 3 from May 14 to 16, 2025. This initiative aligns with the Build Better More Infrastructure thrust of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administration.
Earlier sessions in NCR, Regions 4A, 4B, and 5 laid the groundwork by addressing local concerns, gathering field feedback, and refining strategies to ensure the revised PHMMM is inclusive and responsive to the country’s evolving needs.
Spearheaded by the DPWH Bureau of Maintenance (BOM), each three-day consultation meeting is designed to gather technical feedback and operational insights from Regional and District Engineering Offices. These inputs will help ensure that the revised PHMMM remains relevant and responsive to current maintenance demands, and consistent with nationwide implementation standards.
In a report to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, BOM Director Gene Ryan Altea highlighted the need to revisit standards due to the unique geotechnical characteristics of regions such as Ilocos and Central Luzon, as well as the rapid pace of urban development.
“Given the evolving challenges brought about by regional conditions and urban growth, it is crucial to update our maintenance standards to ensure the manual effectively addresses current needs and future demands,” Director Altea said during the consultation meeting in Region 3.
With strong participation from regional and district maintenance engineers, these on-going consultations are expected to significantly improve the clarity, practicality, and effectiveness of the revised highway maintenance manual for engineering professionals and field personnel across the country.