The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed asphalt paving works along a 4.8-kilometer portion of the Leganes-Sta. Barbara Road, supporting the agricultural communities in Iloilo Province.
According to DPWH Region 6 Director Sanny Boy Oropel, the upgraded stretch covers Barangay Lapayon in Leganes and extends through Barangays Agutayan, Lupa, and Cabugao Norte in Sta. Barbara.
“This vital road passes through various local communities and vast agricultural zones. With the improved pavement, the transport of farm products to commercial centers is now faster and more efficient, while access to basic government services has become more reliable,” said Director Oropel.
This road improvement is a cost-efficient measure that will significantly extend the life of the existing concrete pavement without the need for complete repaving, enhancing safety for road users.
The Leganes-Sta. Barbara Road also serves as an alternate route going to the Iloilo International Airport, decongesting major routes and reducing travel time, making it more convenient for travelers.
In addition to the asphalt overlay, the project includes the provision of thermoplastic pavement markings to further improve safety.
It aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” vision, which emphasizes infrastructure upgrades as a means to boost economic opportunities, particularly in the agriculture sector.
The P83.8-million project was undertaken by DPWH Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office.