Western Visayas Builders - Vol. XIV Issue No. 4

SR. usec sadain elected as pice national president; rd bueno as PICE national auditor

Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) was unanimously elected National President of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers Inc. (PICE) during an executive session of the elected National Board of Directors for CY 2023-2024 held Saturday, November 12, 2022 at the SMX Convention Center, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.

The other PICE national officers elected were Frederick M. Sison (private - consultancy), vice president; Ixoperio R. Bonzon (private - academe), secretary; Albert A. Perfecto (private - construction, treasurer; Nerie D. Bueno (national government), auditor; Rey Peter B. Gille (national government), public relations officer; and Cary H. Beatisula (private - consultancy), business manager.

The national directors include Rosein A. Ancheta Jr. (government - academe); Joseph Dominic S. Felizarta and Juanito D. Cunanan (local government); Basir M. Ibrahim (national government)); Mylene Nonette M. Zamora (government corporation); and Mark Vincent Y. Nodado and Michael J. David (private - construction).

Under the leadership of DPWH Assistant Secretary Ador G. Canlas as 2022 National President and with the support of the Negros Occidental Chapter, PICE had a very successful 48th National Convention and Technical Conference at the SMX Convention Center, 3rd Level, SM City Bacolod from November 11-12, 2022 attended by close to 5,000 on-site delegates and other virtual participants through the convention virtual platform.

Assistant Secretary Canlas, PICE 2022 National President, will be succeeded by April Frances Agatha G. Flores as 2023 PICE National President and to be supported by President-Elect Senior Undersecretary Sadain with the rest of 2023-2024 national officers.

STRENGTH IN UNITY

“IN TIMES OF DISASTER, WE COME TOGETHER TO RECOVER AND REBUILD.”

When Severe Tropical Storm (STS) “Paeng” made landfall on October 29, 2022, Western Visayas was among the hardest-hit areas. Twelve (12) of the sixteen (16) DPWH District Engineering Offices reported infrastructure damages in their respective jurisdictions. A total of one hundred nineteen (119) infrastructures, comprising sixty-eight (68) roads, forty-one (41) bridges, and ten (10) flood control structures, were damaged by STS “Paeng.”

Among the heavily damaged bridges in the Region are the Paliwan Bridge in Brgy. Cubay North, Bugasong, Antique and the Oyungan Bridge in Brgy. Oyungan, Miag-ao Iloilo.

DPWH immediately took remedial measures and provided alternate routes to the traveling public to restore mobility, ensuring the delivery of essential goods and services, particularly in going to and from the economic centers in the island of Panay. Immediate release of calamity funds was already requested for the restoration of these damaged infrastructures.

During the situation briefing on the effects of STS “Paeng in Antique, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. ordered to expedite the restoration of mobility to ensure the delivery of essential goods and services to and from the province of Antique.

DPWH6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno reported to President Marcos, Jr. that ongoing rehabilitation and restoration works have been done by DPWH to be able to open these structures specifically the bridges to the traveling public the soonest possible time.

“The 48-year-old Paliwan Bridge succumbed to the raging force of the river and flood waters during the onslaught of STS “Paeng” and had virtually cut-off the Province of Antique from the the economic centers in the island of Panay,” reported RD Bueno.

On one hand, Antiqueña Senator Loren B. Legarda is relentlessly pursuing the funding for the immediate release of the needed PhP355 Million for the new construction of Paliwan Bridge (Parallel Bridge) in Barangay Cubay North, Busagong, Antique.

Senator Legarda commended the unyielding commitment and indefatigable efforts of DPWH Region 6 for their utmost sacrifices, defying the rains and flood waters during and after the onslaught of Paeng. “Duro guid nga salamat, DPWH,” Senator Legarda said.

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY IMEE GRACE B. TANTIADO

Paliwan Bridge, Brgy. Cubay North, Bugasong, Antique

Fabrication and Installation of Bailey Bridge at Oyungan Bridge

RD Nerie D. Bueno inspects Oyungan Bridge

RD Nerie D. Bueno, together with ARD Jose Al V. Fruto, inspects Paliwan Bridge, Brgy. Cubay North, Bugasong, Antique

Restoration/Rehabilitation works at Paliwan Bridge, Brgy. Cubay North, Bugasong, Antique

RD Nerie D. Bueno during the situation briefing with Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

FLOOD CONTROL STRUCTURES ENSURE SAFETY OF COMMUNITIES ALONG AKLAN RIVER

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH AKLAN DEO

Five flood control structures along Aklan River in the towns of Lezo, Kalibo and Madalag are completed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Aklan District Engineering Office.

DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the structures will serve as defenses against flood and water overflow that may affect local communities.

“The structures also safeguard our roads from possible damage, hence delivery of basic government services from towns to far flung areas and transport goods from farms to the markets will not be hampered,” Director Bueno added.

DPWH has completed the construction of 564-lineal meter reinforced concrete revetment wall on steel sheet pile in Brgy. Bigaa in Lezo in the amount of ₱96.5 million.

In Kalibo, the 572-lineal meter flood control structure in Brgy. Tigayon and 516-lineal meter structure in Brgy. Mobo with the collective amount of ₱151.7 million, are also completed,

which will benefit roughly 6,000 residents residing near the river, and protects agricultural products from being damaged when heavy rains occur.

Likewise, DPWH has completed the construction of 594-lineal meter revetment wall in in Brgy. Guinatuan and 288-lineal meter revetment wall in Bgry. Poblacion, both in Madalag town, with the collective amount of ₱116.4 million.

Meantime, Director Bueno said the construction of ₱84.2-million flood control structure along Ibajay River in Brgy. Laguinbanua in Ibajay town, is in full swing. It involves construction of 557-lineal meter reinforced concrete revetment wall with steel sheet pile and cap, reinforced concrete crest protection, concrete blocks and hexapod foot protection.

SOURCE ELO M. TEFORA | DPWH AKLAN DEO

“BAYANIHAN” SHOWN IN RESTORATION OF ANTIQUE’S CAIRAWAN BRIDGE

Bayanihan spirit flourished in the restoration of the Cairawan Bridge in Laua-an, Antique, shown through the hard work and dedication of the maintenance crew of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Antique District Engineering Office.

The commitment of the workers resulted in the effective reconstruction of the bridge, which was one of the infrastructures in Antique damaged by severe Tropical Storm “Paeng”.

Under the supervision of District Engineer Mark Anthony M. Alejo, the passable bridge paved the way for the heavy equipment on standby for deployment to Paliwan Bridge in Bugasong, Antique, in preparation for its quick restoration.

Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno commended the maintenance team for their prompt action in making the bridge passable and accessible to the general public.

“I appreciated our maintenance team in Antique for sincerely committing in making the Cairawan Bridge available to the public. It is evident that with the Bayanihan culture and solidarity, we can accomplish projects that can help our Filipino people in their daily lives,” RD Bueno said.

Likewise, DE Alejo was grateful for the assistance of the Regional Office and District Engineering Offices in the region, as well as other agencies; and most especially for the dedication and hardwork of the staff of Antique DEO for their time and effort in the immediate restoration of the bridge.

“The successful opening of the bridge was made possible through the effort of Assistant DE Bernadeth Betsy B. Uy, Maintenance Chief Martin Dave F. Operio, the Maintenance Point Persons, and of course our “Orange Boys” of the Maintenance Section,” DE Alejo acknowledged.

“I thank Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno, Assistant Regional Director Jose Al V. Fruto, as well as the Local Government Units (LGU) and private contractors that contributed the much-needed equipment for the bridge restoration,”added Engr. Alejo.

The said bridge is already one lane passable for all types of vehicles and remaining items of work will be completed very soon and fully operation again. ❋

TEXT BY JADE A. PAROCHELIN PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH ANTIQUE DEO

DPWH DELIVERS NEW BUILDING FOR TESDA-CAPIZ

TEXT

A.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Capiz 1st District Engineering Office completely built the provincial office of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Barangay Banica in Roxas City, Capiz.

The ₱20-million 3-storey structure is 820 square meters, with the first floor serving as the Admin & Finance Office, the second as the Regional Director’s Office, and the third as a roof deck with a stylish pastoral landscape.

Citing from the report of District Engineer Nonie A. Viyar, Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the building will serve as TESDA’s operations office, providing work efficiency among its personnel.

“The completion of the TESDA Provincial Office Building in Capiz will give a centralized operation that will help the agency in delivering its quality and efficient service and program,” stated RD Bueno.

Furthermore, DE Viyar also said that prior to the construction of the new office building, TESDA held its operations within Roxas City’s business center, alongside other businesses that occupy the building.

“This new building will provide a spacious area among its office employee and their movement will no longer be restricted. We at DPWH are honored to undertake the construction of this project,” stressed DE Viyar. ❋

BY JADE

PAROCHELIN | PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH CAPIZ 1ST DEO SOURCE SHANE ANTHONY

WIDENED ROAD ENHANCES MOBILITY IN GUIMARAS ISLAND

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH GUIMARAS DEO

Traveling to various communities and magnificent tourist destinations in Nueva Valencia in Guimaras will soon be smoother and more accessible when the road widening is completed.

Undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Guimaras District Engineering Office, the ₱76.2-million project involves widening from two to four lanes along Guimaras Circumferential Road, specifically in Nueva Valencia town. Said project is expected to be completed in December this year.

Citing the report of District Engineering Rhodora B. Nuñal, DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the widening of 1.5-kilometer long Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) road includes provision of paved shoulders, curb and gutter, trapezoidal canal, mechanically-stabilized earth retaining wall with drainage and reflectorizes thermoplastic pavement markings for safety especially at night and during rainy days.

“The widened road will enhance mobility and improve traffic capacity going to barangays of Salvacion, Lucmayan, Napandong and neighboring communities in the town, providing ease of travel among the residents and faster

delivery of basic government services to the communities,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

This will also improve the eco-tourism activities in Nueva Valencia as the better road will provide a faster access to various tourist destinations in the town. This will likewise provide easier access to public establishments such as schools, markets, government offices, health facilities and commercial establishments.

“This road widening is one of the numerous widening activities being undertaken by DPWH in the province of Guimaras. The widened road will cater a huge volume of vehicles and can cater even large and cargo trucks going to various areas in the province, hence, delivery of products and services will not be hampered,” Director Bueno added.

The town of Nueva Valencia houses scenic places such as Biker’s Hill resort, Guisi Lighthouse and Tahi Beach, few of the most visited tourist areas in the province, hence, the improvement of this road will be beneficial in the tourism and economic development of the town and province as well. ❋

SOURCE GAYLE CANDICE CAÑETE DPWH GUIMARAS DEO

MULTI-MILLION GYM BUILT AT THE PHILIPPINES’ FOOTBALL CAPITAL

Ilonggo sports enthusiasts and local residents now have a bigger, modern facility with the completion of the roughly ₱141.4-million “Tamasak Arena,” a multi-purpose building in Barotac Nuevo, which is dubbed as the football capital of the Philippines.

Undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Iloilo 2nd District Engineering Office, in convergence with Barotac Nuevo Local Government, the Gym is built at the entrance of Barotac Nuevo’s football field, which is usually used as venue for various events such as football game of the Palarong Pambansa.

The said multi-year project funded the District’s FY 2017-2020

square meters and elevation of 18 meters, with necessary amenities and other facilities.

As reported by District Engineer Sanny Boy O. Oropel, DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the building will provide a conducive facility for various social, sports and other activities of the town and the province as well.

“This gym can accommodate a maximum of 4,200 people, hence making this a great venue for big sports, cultural, social and other events of the province and even of the country,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

“The building is structurally designed to provide local communities with reliable public edifice that can be utilized as venue for easy delivery of government services such as medical and dental missions, feeding programs, recreational and wellness activities, vaccination programs, and other significant events that require huge crowd,” Director Bueno added.

Director Bueno further stressed that other than venue for sports and social

activities, the multi-million gym may also be used as temporary evacuation center, providing a safer and stronger shelter in times of calamities and disasters.

Meantime, District Engineer Sanny Boy O. Oropel said that other than the main structure, the project includes provision of necessary amenities such as locker rooms, comfort rooms, utility rooms, and a commercial space at the back of the gym.

“To complete the structure, we have provided outside columns (pedestal) and architectural finishes, aluminum cladding for canopy, exterior design (tubular walls), interior designs (glass railings, bleachers, and rubberized floor paint), and provision of basketball court and stage,” District Engineer Sanny Boy O. Oropel said.

The multi-purpose structure is named “Tamasak Arena” as a tribute to “Tamasak,” a legendary white horse which is the town’s symbol and the reason why Barotac Nuevo became a municipality. ❋

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH ILOILO 2ND DEO

PAVED ROAD TO EASE TRANSPORT OF FARM PRODUCTS IN ZARRAGA, ILOILO

Local farmers and residents from various barangays in Zarraga in central Iloilo can now easily transport their products to the market and neighboring towns with the construction of ₱32.3-million paved access road.

Said access road, located from Brgy. Inagdangan Centro to Brgy. Talibong in Zarraga town, is undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office.

In his report to DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno, OIC-District Engineer Mario G. Soriano said the project, funded under the District’s FY 2022 Regular Infrastructure Program through the Sustainable Infrastructure Project Alleviating Gaps (SIPAG), involves concreting of 2.9-kilometer long, 2.25-meter wide, 2-lane Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) access road with gravel shoulders and slope protection.

“This service road will serve as the primary access of the commuters, residents and farmers, providing faster and more convenient access in the transport of products and services from farms to market. This will likewise provide easier delivery of basic government services even to the remote areas in the town,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

This access road traverses along rice fields and other agricultural lands, hence, its improvement will greatly

benefit the people in the, especially rice and vegetable farmers, and animal raisers. With this concrete road, we are hopeful that our farmers can easily transport their products from farms to the market, which could eventually help alleviate their economic condition.

“With this improved road condition, travel time and transport cost in the delivery of agricultural products from farms to the market will be reduced. This will also reduce vehicle operating cost, providing more income to our farmers,” Director Bueno stressed.

Meantime, DE Mario G. Soriano said that other than easier transport of farm products, the improved road will provide faster and more convenient access from Iloilo East Coast Capiz Road to Iloilo-Capiz Road (New Route), and vice versa.

“This concrete road will also aid the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) in their performance of their maintenance works,” District Engineer Mario G. Soriano said.

“True to its mandate, DPWH continues to implement significant road projects that will connect our rural communities to main thoroughfares for faster transportation and easy access to basic government services,” DE Soriano added. ❋

SOURCE DEBBIE L. AMPER | DPWH ILOILO 4TH DEO

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH ILOILO 4TH DEO

BY-PASS ROAD TO DECONGEST TRAFFIC IN NORTHERN ILOILO UNDERWAY

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY

Travel time to various towns in northern Iloilo and to the neighboring province of Capiz will soon be reduced by about 10 minutes when the construction of Barotac Viejo Bypass Road is completed.

Undertaken by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Iloilo 3rd District Engineering Office, the by-pass road is a multi-year project which started in 2021 and is expected to be completed and fully operational in 2025.

As reported by District Engineer (DE) Ricardo R. Gutierrez, DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said that the roughly 2.2-kilometer by-pass road has a total funding requirement of ₱770 million.

“An initial amount of ₱48.5 million funded under FY 2021 General Appropriations Act (GAA) was released to the District to jumpstart the construction. This year, an additional

₱100 million funded under FY 2022 GAA was approved to continue to implementation,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

“Given favorable weather condition and available budget, we are hopeful that this by-pass road will be fully utilized by our motorists and the riding public,” Director Bueno added.

“Once completed, this by-pass road will serve as a diversion road to decongest heavy traffic along the town proper of Barotac Viejo. This will also serve as alternate connectors between the barangays of Natividad and San Roque, reducing travel time by about 10 minutes,” Director Bueno explained.

“More significantly, this new road will ensure faster delivery of both agricultural and marine products to the market, providing more income among our farmers and fisherfolks. This will likewise provide shorter

travel to various towns and tourist destinations in the northern tip of Iloilo province,” Dir. Bueno stressed.

Meanwhile, DE Ricardo R, Gutierrez said the project involves construction of Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) road, cross drainage, grouted riprap and stone masonry.

“We also include provision of guard rails and reflectorized thermoplastic pavement markings to ensure safety of our motorists especially at night and during rainy season,” DE Gutierrez said.

Facing Guimaras and Negros islands, Barotac Viejo highly contributes to socio-economic development in northern Iloilo, hence the construction of this by-pass road is a vital contribution of the DPWH as it continues to provide quality infrastructure facilities and services to improve the life of every Filipino. ❋

OF DPWH ILOILO 3RD DEO

CONCRETE ROAD PROVIDES ACCESS TO ILOILO CITY’S AGRICULTURAL AREAS

A paved farm-to-market road (FMR) is now providing access to Barangay Lanit in Jaro District, one of the agricultural producing communities in the highly urbanized Iloilo City.

Undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Iloilo City District Engineering Office in convergence with the Department of Agriculture (DA), the concreting of ₱10-million worth of FMR is now completed and being utilized by both residents and farmers in the said community.

Citing the report from District Engineer Cezar M. Hipona, Jr., DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the 246-lineal meter long, 6.1-meter wide, 2-lane FMR with 1-meter gravel shoulder on both sides aids farmers in the transport of products from farms to various markets in the city.

“This farm-to-market road connects agricultural areas to the markets, facilitates lesser travel time and more convenient travel experience from producers to the buyers. The concrete road also reduces hauling cost of farm products, making our farmers earn more for their families,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

This paved FMR is an essential component of the government’s effort to develop the countryside and achieve economic and agricultural growth not only in rural communities but also the urbanized cities. Good road is a significant contribution in the economic development of an area, and enhances mobility to and access to government offices, schools, health facilities, social places and essential establishments. ❋

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH ILOILO CITY DEO

A celebration centered on the idea of family and the value of solidarity, imbued with the cheerful spirit of Christmas, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Office VI celebrated the Christmas Party with 16 District Engineering Offices (DEO) on December 21, 2022.

The one-day celebration, which had a gold and silver theme, commenced with a gift-giving to all employees, led by Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno, and was followed by a mass and lunch in each division.

Director Bueno graced the celebration for the successful initiatives of its personnel and was commended for their efforts and contribution throughout the year in the department.

The program proper includes the performance of the 18 “Your Face Sounds Familiar” (YFSF) contestants, raffle draws, the announcement of YFSF winners, Christmas Tree Making

TEXT BY JADE A. PAROCHELIN PHOTOS BY JOHN CHRISTIAN CUERPO MA. JOSENIA C. SAMSON

Gift-giving to all employees, led by Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno

Star of the Night (Male & Female)

Holy Mass at Old Conference Room

Surprise number from RD Nerie D. Bueno, ARD Jose Al V. Fruto, and 16 District Engineers/Assistant District Engineers dancing to the beat of the hit song “Permission to Dance”

NEW BRIDGE RECONNECTS COMMUNITIES IN NORTHERN NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

Various communities in E.B. Magalona in northern Negros Occidental, which were ravaged and separated by typhoon Yolanda in 2013, are now reconnected with the construction of Nanca-Cudangdang Bridge.

Undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Negros Occidental 1st District Engineering Office, the project connects the barangays of Nanca and Cudangdang and the neighboring barangays of Tanza and Tabigue.

As reported by OIC-District Engineer Dene B. Baldonado, Jr., DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the reconstruction of the bridge is vital in the transport of products from local communities to the market, and providing linkage among communities.

“The reconstruction of this bridge provides direct access among sugarcane-hauling trucks from the barangays of Nanca, Cudangdang, Tanza and Tabigue to sugar mill in the neighboring city of Victorias, hence, improving the economy and livelihood of the people in local communities,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

“The new bridge will likewise provide approximately 11,000 residents with a safer and quickers mode of crossing Malogo River instead of using small barge as means of crossing, which posed danger during typhoons and rainy days,” Director Bueno added.

Funded under the District’s FY 2020 General Appropriations Act (GAA), the ₱50-million project involves construction of new 75-lineal meter Pre-Stressed Concrete Girder (PSCG) bridge with an area of 572 square meters with grouted riprap as slope protection, and construction of 960-meter concrete approaches on both sides.

“Bridge is a vital transportation and economic infrastructure towards economic growth and transport linkage. With the reconstruction of Nanca-Cudangdang Bridge, the once disturbed economic activities in the local communities in E.B. Magalona will be revitalized, which would hopefully open new economic opportunities for the whole town,” Director Bueno stressed. ❋

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY OF NEGROS OCC. 1ST DEO

SOURCE JULIAN R. MONTUYA | DPWH NEGROS OCC. 1ST DEO

SLOPE PROTECTION STRUCTURE SECURES LIVES AND PROPERTIES ALONG BINALBAGAN RIVER

Lives, properties and livelihood of the residents of Hacienda Alicante in Barangay Bungahin in Isabela, Negros Occidental are now secured with the construction of a slope protection structure.

Said project is implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Negros Occidental 2nd District Engineering Office, in the amount of ₱71.3 million.

The project involves construction of 386-lineal meter concrete slope protection on steel sheet pile at the upstream of Alicante Bridge along junction Bagonawa – La Castellana – Isabela Road. It also includes construction of pile cap and parapet wall.

Citing from the report of District Engineer Allan Rey R. Pajimna, Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the structure is protecting hundreds of families near the riverbanks, especially when heavy rains occur.

“When heavy rains occur, volume of water rushes along Binalbagan River, causing water overflow and soil erosion. With this structure, erosion of the river banks is prevented and overflow of water is minimized, protecting the lives and properties of the people nearby,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

Residents are grateful with the construction of the said flood control structure which is very beneficial in protecting their lives, properties and sources of income.

“Without the slope protection, our houses, animals and agricultural products would be swept away by the flood especially when typhoons or heavy rains hit our area. Now we are less worried and we are very thankful to the DPWH for this significant project,” Mrs. Nilda E. Trabuco, a local resident said.

Flood control structures are designed to protect coastal and river banks, including urban and agricultural communities, homes, and other economically valuable areas, and the people situated within them. By keeping water out, flood control structures lessen harm to physical infrastructure and help to ensure continuation of communities’ economic and social activity.

Hence, as its contribution, DPWH continues to quality, safe, and environment-friendly public infrastructures such as slope protection structures that will improve the life of every Filipino. ❋

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH NEGROS OCC. 2ND DEO

IMPROVED ROAD BENEFITS MORE FARMERS IN CAUAYAN, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

TEXT

Around 70 farmers and 400 households of Brgy. Man-uling in Cauayan, Negros Occidental are now benefiting the ease of travel and transport of products from farms to the market with the newly paved road.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Negros Occidental 3rd District Engineering Office has completed the concreting of the ₱11.8-million Farm-to-Market Road (FMR), specifically in Sitio Bayabas, where vast areas are mostly planted with crops and agricultural products.

Said road concreting project, in convergence with the Department of Agriculture, involves construction of 970-lineal meter, 5-meter wide Portland Concrete Cement Pavement (PCCP) road. This also includes provision of slope protection structure, and application of thermoplastic pavement markings and metal railings.

Citing from the report of District Engineer Rodney A. Gustilo, DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the completed FMR project is beneficial not only to the farmers but also to hundreds of residents in the community.

“With this improved road, people from the remote and far-flung areas will have easy access to basic government services such as health and education,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

“More significantly, the paved road is very beneficial to our agricultural sector wherein farmers can conveniently deliver their products to the market at a lesser hauling cost, making them earn more than they used to,” Director Bueno said.

Likewise, Brgy. Man-uling chief, Ms. Madeline Samillano said they are now less worried especially in times of emergency compared to what they have been experiencing in the past.

“During emergency situations before, it was difficult for us to travel because the road was muddy during rainy season and dusty during dry season, that aggravated our health condition. Now, we can easily reach health facilities in the town in times of emergency, and the aid from the government can also easily reach our place during calamities,” Ms. Samillano said.

This convergence project of DPWH and DA is a vital factor in enhancing agricultural development, and improving the standard of living of the people in the rural areas. DPWH continues to work hand-in-hand with partner agencies and stakeholders in providing quality infrastructure facilities and services that will improve the life of every Filipino. ❋

BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH NEGROS OCC. 3RD DEO

SOURCE KARREN MAE A. DIEGO | DPWH NEGROS OCC. 3RD DEO

FLOOD CONTROL STRUCTURES BUILT TO ADDRESS FLOODING IN BACOLOD CITY

TEXT

Flooding is one of the major problems in big cities like Bacolod in Negros Occidental, particularly when heavy rains occur. Hence, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Bacolod City District Engineering Office is being at the forefront in addressing the concern by constructing flood control structures and drainage systems in various areas in the city.

In his report to DPWH 6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno, District Engineer Abraham C. Villareal said they are currently undertaking the construction of revetment wall with floodwall along Mandalagan River, which is expected to be completed before the end of this year.

“We are now currently in the 3rd phase of the flood control project with roughly 80 percent accomplishment and we are expecting to complete the construction this month,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

The ₱69.2-million flood control structure is built from Our Lady of Mercy Hospital to Mandalagan National High School. The project involves construction of 545-lineal meter long, 150-millimeter thick stone masonry wall.

“This structure will protect the river banks from further erosion, prevent water overflow, and protect the lives and properties of the people especially along hospital and school facilities,” Director Bueno added.

On the other hand, District Engineer Abraham C. Villareal said that various roads and drainage systems were constructed in Bacolod City to provide motorists and pedestrians with a safer and comfortable travel, and prevent water overflow along major roads in the city.

With the collective amount of ₱19.8 million, the project involves construction roads and drainage systems at the barangays of Taculing, Tangub, Alijis, Vista Alegre, Pahanocoy and Granada, to prevent overflow of water along the roads.

“The improved roads and drainage systems will the communities with a well-paved, comfortable and secured roadway and prevent flooding along these barangays, District Engineer Abraham C. Villareal said.

“Located along the shoreline with mostly plainlands, Bacolod City is the catch basin of water coming from neighboring cities and towns in Negros Occidental. Thus, the improvement of these flood control structures is beneficial to the people especially now that we are experiencing series of typhoons and heavy rains,” DE Villareal added.

SOURCE HELEN S. ESPERANCILLA | DPWH BACOLOD CITY DEO

BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL | PHOTO COURTESY OF DPWH BACOLOD CITY DEO

DPWH RO-VI THR UGH THE LENS

PHOTOS BY IMEE GRACE B. TANTIADO MA. JOSENIA C. SAMSON JOHN CHRISTIAN M. CUERPO

MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING (VIEWING DECK) BUILT ALONG COASTAL BARANGAY

₱13.86-million new 2-storey, 15x15-meter multi-purpose building (viewing deck) built along the coastal barangay of Tuburan in E.B. Magalona in Negros Occidental, undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Negros Occidental 1st District Engineering Office.

This structure equipped with necessary amenities, this structure can cater hundreds of daily foreign and local tourists visiting Tuburan Sunset View, one of the tourist attractions in the town.

This 15-square meter building will also cater various events and activities of the community, providing a conducive area for social, tourism, religious and political activities of the barangay. ❋

BIGGER FACILITY FOR LOCAL AFFAIRS: MULTIPURPOSE BUILDING (COVERED GYM)

Newly completed multi-purpose facility in Brgy. Agusipan, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo built by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office. The project is a 13-meter x 25-meter, 10-column covered gym with bleachers and necessary amenities.

This ₱4.8-million structure funded under the District’s FY 2022 General Appropriations Act (GAA) was completed ahead of schedule and now being utilized by hundreds of residents in the barangay.

The gym will provide a bigger venue for various social, religious, political, health and wellness, and recreational activities in the barangay. This will also serve as temporary shelter in times of calamities and disasters. ❋

E.B. MAGALONA, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

BRGY. AGUSIPAN, STA. BARBARA, ILOILO

SOURCE JULIAN R. MONTUYA | DPWH NEGROS OCC. 1ST DEO

SOURCE DEBBIE L. AMPER | DPWH ILOILO 4TH DEO

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL

The town of Carles in Iloilo can be found in the Northernmost of Panay Island. Definitely, the place is far from the chaotic and busy city life. While Islas de Gigantes ( Gigantes Islands) started to attract a good number of tourists both local and abroad, the place is still free from the usual beach party life like the most popular beach or summer destinations are offering.

Islas de Gigantes (a.k.a as Gigantes Island, Isla Gigantes) is blessed with spectacular sceneries, clear waters, and white sand beaches. The rich vast blue seascape brimming with rich marine life; interesting caverns and caves; Palawan like rock formations and the long stretch of white sand beaches are just some of the reasons for people to visit the place.

Visiting to various tourist spots in north Gigantes Island in Carles, Iloilo is now accessible with the construction of concrete road, a convergence project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Tourism (DOT) under the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP).

With the total amount of ₱255 million, this FY 20162021 multi-year project is implemented by DPWH Regional Office 6 and Iloilo 3rd District Engineering Office along the whole stretch of north Gigantes Island, traversing the barangays of Langub, Piagao and Asluman.

DPWH continues to work with DOT in providing infrastructures towards tourism development in the country.

PHOTO FROM GUIDETOTHEPHILIPPINES.PH

PHOTO FROM DPWH ILOILO 3RD DEO

DPWH 6 KICKS-OFF 18DAY EVAW CAMPAIGN

TEXT BY MELVIN S. SEDICOL PHOTOS BY IMEE GRACE B. TANTIADO & JOHN CHRISTIAN M. CUERPO

A simple activity was held during the flag raising ceremony at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Office today to kick-off the 18-day campaign to End Violence Against Women (EVAW) today.

In her message, Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno emphasized the significance of unity in ending violence against women.

“Ang theme po natin this year is United for VAW-free Philippines.” Bakit po united? Kasi gusto natin ipakita na dapat sama sama po tayo para madali nating mawawakasan ang violence against women,” Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said.

Director Bueno also discussed some of the violence affecting women and children, urging everyone to stop violence against women to have a better life.

“May kasabihan nga na “a happy wife is a happy life,” so sana suportahan po natin ang kampanyang ito at dapat na wakasan na ang violence against women and children,” Director Bueno stressed.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NEGROS OCC. 3RD DEO

DPWH 6 LAUNCHES ‘HONESTY STORE’ TO FOSTER HONESTY AND INTEGRITY

Instilling the values of honesty and integrity among the employees, an ‘Honesty Store’ filled with various foods and drinks was launched at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Office 6.

Managed by the Gender and Development (GAD) team of the Regional Office, the ‘Honesty Store” is an unattended store with buyers expected to leave their payment for the items they are buying. Among the items available in the cart are biscuits, chips, bottled water, soft drinks, cakes, instant coffee, cup noodles, and fruits.

Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno actively led the launching of the rolling cart store, which is initially a fund-raising activity as part of the celebration of the 18-day campaign to End Violence Against Women (EVAW).

Director Bueno encourages everyone to patronize the store and plans to permanently adopt the DPWH Honesty Store upon its success.

outlet as well as to demonstrate how an honest public servant should be,” Director Bueno remarked.

“Let us all support this honesty store, because it will provide everyone with an accessible food

DPWH REGION VI CONTINUES TO BE ISO 9001: 2015 CERTIFIED

TEXT BY IMEE GRACE B. TANTIADO

For seven (7) years, the Department of Public Works and Highways has been steadfast in its mission to provide excellent public service through its nationwide International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification.

Regional Director (RD) Nerie D. Bueno received the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Certification conferred by SOCOTEC Certification International last September 14, 2022 at the Department of Public Works and Highways, Central Office in Manila.

In his message, DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan said, “ISO certification is a major milestone in the continual Improvement of our service delivery and better customer satisfaction for our stakeholders.”

Secretary Bonoan also recognized all Regional Offices (ROS) and District Engineering Offices (DEOS) for effectively complying with International standards.

The sixteen (16) DEOS of Region 6 received their ISO 9001: 2015 QMS certification during the Awarding Ceremony led by RD Nerie D. Bueno held on October 6, 2022 at the Regional Office 6, in Iloilo City.

RD Bueno acknowledged the importance of ISO certification, which resulted in improved service delivery, brought about by the streamlined and improved processes of the Department.

“ISO has been our solid foundation to live up to our vision of becoming an effective and efficient government agency,” RD Bueno said.

She encouraged everyone to continue to sustain the internationally recognized standard in order to strengthen citizens’ faith and trust in the DPWH’s capacity to make Filipino lives better, safer, and healthier.

Assistant Regional Director (ARD) Jose Al V. Fruto, continued, “Everyone must actively participate in our quality journey toward sustaining the efforts that we have already exerted in attaining all these milestones-enhancing governance, empowering people, and increasing our delivery of service to the public, which improves the overall satisfaction of our stakeholders.”

In closing, RD Bueno urged the DEOS by saying “Never stop striving for quality in your respective district offices, as the past cannot be changed, but the future we strive for is still in our p ower.”

The Department of Public Works and Highways was one of the first national government agencies that obtained ISO Certification.

IN THE KNOW!

EXTERNAL STAKEHOLDER’S SATISFACTION SURVEY REPORT

4TH QUARTER CY 2022

NUMBER OF FEEDBACK RECEIVED PER CRITERIA 4TH QUARTER CY 2022

For the 4th Quarter of 2022, Region VI received a total of Seven Hundred Sixty-One (761) feedback from external stakeholders/visiting clients and obtained an overall satisfaction rating of 99.24%

Customer Satisfaction Survey Application (CuSSA) an online application developed to replace the manual Customer Satisfaction Survey Forms by 2023. This is pursuant to the provision of Republic Act No. 11032, also known as the Ease of Doing Business Act of 2018, specifically Rule 4, Section 3 of its Implementing Rules and Regulations. “b”, to wit:

“All agencies shall embed feedback mechanisms and client satisfaction measurement in their process improvement efforts. The agency shall report to the Authority the results of the Client Satisfaction Survey for each service based on the guidelines to be issued by the Authority. “

CuSSA aims to standardize the process of feedback management to improve the management of customer

feedback, improve data quality application interfacing, and produce analytics to monitor the trends of customer feedback.

OVERALL RATING

The category with the highest satisfaction rating is 99.74% rating followed by rating, and PROCESS

The DPWH Citizen’s Charter defines the steps for availing a service, action officer and processing time for each steps as well as the applicable fees and documentary requirements in accordance with the latest applicable laws, rules, and regulations. The FY 2022 edition of the DPWH Citizen’s Charter is now available for download in the DPWH intranet and internet websites.

The following are the frontline services registered at DPWH Citizens Charter: