The Cordillera Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC), led by National Economic Development Authority-Cordillera Director Milagros Rimando, said the three Apayao road projects that have been flagged under the Regional Project Monitoring Evaluation System for incurring delays should be provided with a timeline.
This was the recommendation during the meeting initiated by the RPMC relative to the implementation of the projects.
Among the agreements during the meeting was for the Department of Public Works and Highways to include a timeline in their project reports to indicate realistic targets, allowing some for revisions or extensions.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources also offered to assist the DPWH in the implementation of environmental policies since two of the projects are access roads to tourist destinations.
The Manag-Talifugo-Paddaoan and Manag-Liwan roads are in Conner while the Bulu (Lenneng) Road is in Kabugao. These roads connect various industries and tourist sites in Apayao.
The Manag-Talifugo-Paddaoan road connects Conner’s banana, coffee, cacao, rice and corn industries to the Tabuk-Conner-Kabugao National Road.
The Manag-Liwan road leads to the declared tourism destinations of Purag River, Purag Cave, and Bellang Cave in Conner, Apayao. The Bulu (Lenneng) Road will improve access to the Gulolan Falls in Paco Valley, Kabugao, Apayao.
Apayao First District Engineering Office Engr. Albert Gahid earlier issued notices to terminate the contracts of the three projects. The RPMC inspected the three project sites on Nov. 27 and 28, 2019.
The delays were attributed to inclement weather. The Manag-Liwan Road was also delayed due to a right-of-way concern with an elementary school.
The school’s existing stage and comfort room are in the way of the road project. The RPMC recommended a negotiation with the concerned school and barangay to demolish and rebuild the structures and construct a retaining wall to keep the students safe.
The RPMC monitors government projects region-wide to ensure on-time implementation by facilitating the resolution of project issues. It is composed of regional government agencies, local governments, and the private sector.
The RPMC had also nominated John Glenn Abela of the United Architects of the Philippines to join Regional Development Council Private Sector representatives Arnel Cabanisas and Dr. Julie Cabato as members. – Marlo Lubguban
April 26, 2024
