The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will undertake feasibility study (FS) of the Quezon-Bicol Expressway (QBEx) that will significantly reduce travel time between Manila and the Bicol Region.
In a report to DPWH Secretary Mark A. Villar, DPWH Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Director Alex G. Bote said from the first quarter to the third quarter of 2018, the DPWH Planning Service - Project Preparation Division will undertake the FS to ensure timely implementation of the project that is aimed for construction from 2022 to 2026.
“By fourth quarter this year, we plan to begin the Tender Process of QBEx, then by fourth quarter of 2019 the Detailed Engineering Design, followed by Right-of-way Acquisition starting fourth quarter of 2020 so we will be able to proceed with the construction by first quarter of 2022,” said Director Bote.
The QBEx Project which will be implemented under PPP program of the Department has an estimated length of about 180 kilometers from Pagbilao, Quezon to the existing Maharlika Highway in San Fernando, Camarines Sur. The indicative project cost will be determined upon completion of the FS.
Once completed, QBEx will be a faster alternative option of travellers from Quezon and Bicol Provinces to the congested Maharlika Highway which is also more than 200 kilometers.
“For the longest time, Daang Maharlika Highway also known as Pan-Philippine Highway is the only route of motorists heading and coming from Bicol Region to Manila. With QBEx, traveling will not only be faster but also safer since motorists can avoid traversing through mountainside and other fragmentary roads of Maharlika Highway,” added Director Bote.