DPWH constructs P66-million infra projects in 2005
San Jose, Antique -- The Department of Public Works and Highways Antique Engineering District has constructed infrastructure projects in total amount of P66 million for calendar year 2005.
Engr. Thelma Escanillas of DPWH said that most of these projects are located in the countryside. These are requested by Barangay Officials to the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of Congressman Exequiel B. Javier and other party list representatives.
Many of the projects are roads and bridges in the amount of P34.2 million that pave the way for upland dwellers to have easy access of their farm products to the market and bringing people in far flung barangays near the seat of local governance. Also included are hanging footbridges in Barangays Cuyapiao, Patnongon and San Agustin, Valderrama who are separated by floodwaters during rainy season.
In terms of disaster control and management, DPWH has constructed P6.3 million flood control projects and drainage system while P7.3 million were used to construct potable water supply projects such as Artesian wells, spring development projects, pumping stations and conduits. Water supply projects have help household in remote areas avail of safe drinking water.
DPWH has also constructed school buildings in line with education for all programs in the amount of P8.7 million particularly intended for construction of classrooms in various elementary and high schools in the province.
Other infrastructure projects funded under the congressional initiatives are market and slaughter houses in the towns of Tobias Fornier and Culasi and multi-purpose buildings in 7 other barangays.
For party list projects, DPWH constructed 3 multi-purpose building in a cumulative amount of P1.1 million in Barangay Abiera, Sebaste, Barangbang, San Remigio and San Jose.
The source also said that budget of these projects were approved in 2004 however, construction only started in 2005. Aside from these projects DPWH still conduct regular maintenance of national highways and bridges in the province.
These infrastructure projects are in support to the Ten Point Agenda of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo dubbed as BEAT THE ODDS. Construction of infrastructure projects provides employment and hastens economic activity particularly agricultural production. (PIA)