Accelerated implementation of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ road development project in the Province of Basilan has further trimmed down to three (3) kilometers the remaining concrete paving activities for the Basilan Circumferential Road Project.
DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson said that newly paved road section for Basilan Circumferential Road is now at 44 kilometers based from the latest monitoring report submitted by Project Manager Madsmo Hasim of the DPWH Saudi Fund for Development – assisted Mindanao Roads Improvement Project.
The completed concrete paving works is part of the 47-km construction/improvement project for the Basilan Circumferential Road costing P1.567 Billion.
Singson said that the present administration of President Aquino is committed to finish the total length of the circumferential road for the island province.
It is to be recalled that six (6) members of the Philippine Army including a 2014 honor graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, 2nd Lt. June Galima Corpuz, died in an ambush last November 2, 2014 while conducting routine patrol to secure construction workers in Sitio Mompol, Libug Village in Sumisip town.
Considered an elusive dream in the past, the improvement of Basilan Circumferential Road with an entire length of 133 kilometers connecting almost all municipalities of Basilan has reduced travel time from 5 hours to 2 hours while travel for the improved length of 44 kilometers of two (2) hours was cut short to 30 to 45 minutes.
“The people of Basilan have witnessed the new meaning of peace and development because of the road project and in due time, they shall realize the national government’s vision for inclusive growth for the province”, added Singson.
The road is expected to facilitate the transport of major products that include copra and rubber as well as improving the peace and order situation in the area.