Smoother vehicular flow and increased capacity will soon be experienced by motorists and commuters as Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) implements the widening of San Joaquin Bridge in Barangay Baras, Municipality of Palo, Leyte.
According to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, citing reports from DPWH Region 8 Director Edgar B. Tabacon, the second and last phase of the project, with an allocation of P43.48 million, covers the widening of the bridge from two (2) to four (4) lanes, approach slab, and construction of slope protection structure using grouted riprap.
“With fast-tracked works on the project, the second phase is now at 87.11 percent with the target completion on February 2023,” said Secretary Bonoan.
“The 98.80 lineal meters San Joaquin bridge located along Daang Maharlika forms part of the only thoroughfare that connects the towns of Palo and Tanauan in Leyte, making it a vital infrastructure to daily road users,” said Director Tabacon.
The first phase of the bridge widening project was completed last April 2022 with an allocation of P66.63 million.
Once completed, the widened San Joaquin Bridge will not only conform to the nationwide road expansion activity of the Department, but will also boost tourism and trade activities, provide a safer travel to both locals and tourists, and alleviate traffic congestion along the region’s major thoroughfares.
