Infra Bulletin - January to March 2022 by R3 PIO

Table of

CON TEN TS 30

NEWS BRIEFS

DPWH Region III officials attend launch of Hermosa Mega Build Project - Phase 2 in Bataan

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES

Construction works on 22.78-km bypass road in Bulacan in full swing

KONKRETONG AKSYON

2022 National Women’s Month celebration

DPWH goes all-out in widening of Bulacan’s Arterial Bypass Road

Secretary Mercado visits PA’s Army Artillery Regiment, inspects ongoing TIKAS projects

DPWH Region III to implement over 2k infra projects in 2022

GAD CORNER

NATIONAL NEWS

DISTRICT NEWS

BANNER NEWS

CENTRAL NEWS

PH, JICA ink agreement to advance disaster mitigation in coastal areas

FEATURE STORY Maintenance Division

DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

SPIRITUAL & MORAL EMPOWERMENT

editorial team ALLAN V. MANTARING Editor

JERVIN T. MARASIGAN LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK https://twitter.com/dpwhph https://www.facebook.com/dpwhph DPWH 24/7 Hotline 165-02

JOIN US The DPWH-Regional Office III Infra Bulletin is accepting original articles - news and feature stories, opinions, and photo releases - all subject for edit. However, we reserve the right to accept or reject articles found to be not in accordance with our editorial policies. For further inquiry, please send us an email at prodpwh3@gmail. com. THE EDITOR

Staff Writer

PRINCE KENNETH T. IRABON Graphic/Layout Artist

MARIA WILMA VAN DEN HEEVER FERNANDO O. LAZARO Researchers

DISTRICT ENGINEERS TECHNICAL DIVISION CHIEFS DISTRICT PUBLIC AFFAIRS & INFORMATION OFFICERS Contributors

RD ROSELLER A. TOLENTINO ARD DENISE MARIA M. AYAG Technical Consultants

BANNER NEWS

DPWH Region III to implement over 2k infra projects in 2022

he Department of Public Works and Highways in Region III was given P70.77-billion worth of allocations for the implementation of 2,214 infrastructure projects in Central Luzon under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for fiscal year 2022 or Republic Act (RA) No. 11639. “The DPWH Regional Office and our 14 District Engineering Offices will continue to implement various projects under the asset and network development programs of the agency that include road openings and offcarriageway improvements. For instance, our DPWH office in Cabanatuan City received a total of P532.76 million for the rehabilitation and improvement of the Nueva Ecija sections of JASA and Sta. Rosa – Tarlac Road,” Region III Director Roseller A. Tolentino explained. The Regional Director further elaborated that aside from the usual agency projects included under the bridge, flood management, and convergence

programs; several foreignassisted projects were given funding to ensure its continued implementation. “Big-ticket projects in the region that are foreign-funded or those aided by loans or grants like the Central Luzon Link Expressway – Phase I, Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge Project, and the CapasBotolan Road Project were also infused with fresh funds,” RD Tolentino added. Based on the data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the DPWH earmarked P36.2 billion for the implementation of projects included in the agency’s Convergence and Special Support Program, of which P23.4 billion were allotted for the construction of various structures in Central Luzon under the Sustainable Infrastructure Projects Alleviating Gaps (SIPAG) program. “Admittedly there is an urgent need to bridge infrastructure gaps in the region. DPWH believes that the development of

Central Luzon’s current economic infrastructure can be attained through the delivery of the muchneeded projects that we are set to implement,” RD Tolentino enthused. These are road projects leading to major strategic facilities, flood mitigation projects that will protect public structures, and other multipurpose facilities that can support the government’s provision of social services that at the same time help generate economic growth. DPWH Region III also received P8.83 billion intended for the construction of new evacuation centers, public health facilities, improvement of the public water supply system, roads leading to railways, seaports, tourism destinations, and industrial zones. A total of P957.51 million will also be used in modernizing military facilities across the region.###

2K INFRA

PROJECTS DALAN BAPOR

BRIDGE

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

NEWS BRIEFS

DPWH Region III officials attend launch of Hermosa Mega Build Project - Phase 2 in Bataan

he Municipal Government of Hermosa in Bataan has formally launched on February 26, 2022 the ambitious economic development project Hermosa Mega Build Project-Phase 2 through the groundbreaking of the 17.74-kilometer MabigaMorong-Subic Port Road, a multiyear project implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Office III and Bataan 1st District Engineering Office.

The activity hosted by Hermosa Mayor Antonio Joseph Inton was attended by key Bataan local executives that included Governor Albert Raymond S. Garcia, Vice Governor Ma. Cristina Garcia, 1st District Representative Geraldine B. Roman represented by Atty. Tonyboy Roman, 2nd District Representative Jose Enrique S. Garcia III, Senator Richard Gordon, DPWH Region III Director Roseller Tolentino represented by Assistant Regional Director Denise Maria Ayag, and Bataan 1st District Engineer Erlindo Flores, Jr. In Director Tolentino’s message delivered by ARD Ayag, he said that the road project connecting Hermosa Ecozone, Clark International Airport and Bataan Techno Park is a big boost for improving connectivity and mobility between the industrial zones of Bataan, Pampanga and Zambales - known as the growth corridor in West Central Luzon. RD Tolentino also reiterated the Department’s commitment to provide Bataan province, and all provinces for that matter, with all the required infrastructure to support its goal of continuously

4 Department of Public Works and Highways

advancing its socio-economic environment. Further, he said that for this year alone, the two Bataan District Engineering Offices are set to implement an estimated P5billion worth of projects included in the FY2022 DPWH Infrastructure Program.###

HERMOSA

MEGA BUILD

PROJECT PHASE

NEWS BRIEFS

DPWH Region III gets new bridge inspection equipment

state-of-the-art equipment that can be used in the conduct of bridge inspection activities is scheduled to be deployed by the Department of Public Works and Highways - Bureau of Equipment (DPWH-BOE) to the DPWH Regional Office in Pampanga, BOE Director Toribio Noel L. Ilao announced. “All national bridges under the supervision of the DPWH are regularly inspected to ensure that they are structurally safe. Conducting a structural assessment of existing concrete bridges is very important because we can easily identify the possible sources of structural issues that may cause bridge weakening or failure,” Director Ilao said.

Director Ilao also added that this new equipment will be pooled at the Nueva Ecija Area Equipment Section and will be assigned to DPWH Region III on a shareduse basis. The unit is capable of handling tasks involved in the safe conveyance of engineers and inspection technicians above, alongside and below a bridge. In a statement, Region 3 Director Roseller A. Tolentino said the new equipment will be of great help in conducting inspection activities. “We actually have challenges when it comes to the inspection of bridges. There are associated risk to our engineers due to the difficulty of accessing all parts of the bridge since the spaces between girders or any other

bridge parts can be tight and hard to reach. With this new equipment, the thorough inspection of bridges would be easier,” RD Tolentino explained. A seminar/workshop for the safe operation of the new bridge inspection equipment was also held on January 10-11, 2022 and was attended by Fernando S. Naluz and Rolando B. Naluz of DPWH Region III-Equipment Management Division and by Jeffrey SP. Jacinto, Krushnev P. Ferrer, Harvey A. Valmonte and Ceejay T. Felix of the Nueva Ecija Area Equipment Section. The training of DPWH personnel was conducted by the equipment supplier led by Jorge L. Ballao, Operation Division Technician; Bonifacio A. Begenio, Jr., Electrician/Mechanic; and Ryan A. Labrador, Technical Manager.###

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

NEWS BRIEFS

DPWH Regional Office III passes ISO 9001:2015 Recertification Audit

he Department of Public Works and Highways – Regional Office III successfully underwent a remote recertification audit for ISO 9001:2015-Quality Management System from March 7 to 10, 2022. The conformance audit was conducted by Ms. Laarni Narido of SOCOTEC Certification International Philippines, Inc. and was carried out based on the guidelines set by ISO 9001: 2015 in the enrolled office processes, and on the agreed scope of certification and audit criteria. “The purpose of the remote audit is to assess the effective implementation of the DPWH’s Quality Management System and to determine whether the various offices in the Regional Office have complied with the approved office operating procedures and

processes. This will also validate the continued conformity and effectiveness of the QMS as a whole and its continued relevance and applicability,” DPWH Region III Director Roseller Tolentino said. During the 4-day recertification audit, the external auditor thoroughly reviewed the top management and the different process owners of the concerned Divisions. At the wrap-up meeting attended by all the audit participants including Assistant Regional Director Denise Maria Ayag, Ms. Narido shared the positive aspects of the audit and disclosed that five opportunities for improvement were observed and that

6 Department of Public Works and Highways

there were no instances of any non-compliance to the QMS processes identified. ARD Ayag thanked everyone who participated in the audit for making it a success, and the Office QMS Core Team for their effort in helping the DPWH Regional Office III pass the assessment. He also thanked Ms. Narido for her support and guidance and said that this recertification audit was an opportunity for the Regional Office to demonstrate their compliance with the requirements of ISO 9001:2015.###

iso 9001 :

2015

NEWS BRIEFS

DPWH, DAR inaugurate P14.05-M Bridge in Sta. Ignacia, Tarlac

fficials from the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Agrarian Reform led by Secretary Bernie F. Cruz formally opened the P14.05million bridge connecting the agricultural barangays of San Sotero, Calipayan, Timmaguab, Cabugbugan and Caanamongan in Sta Ignacia, Tarlac. The newly built Calipayan Bridge is a project funded under the “Tulay ng Pangulo para sa Kaunlarang P a n g Agraryo” program and

was implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Office III. In a statement, Public Works Region III Director Roseller Tolentino said that this structure will greatly help the estimated 1,170 agrarian reform beneficiaries belonging to the Kapit Bisig Agrari an Reform Community (ARC) in transporting their crops from their farms to major markets in Central Luzon.

Sta. Ignacia Municipal Mayor Nora Modomo, and DPWH officials including Atty. Rodil Millado of the Legal Service, Engr. Richard Dean Santos of Unified Project Management Office - Bridges Management Cluster (UPMOBMC), Regional Construction Division Assistant Chief Jayson Jauco, and Project Engineer Albert Salac.###

The double-lane, 45.60 - linear meter Calipayan Bridge has a 105.05-linear meter approaches at both ends and was built using French Universal Bridge (Unibridge) Technology. The superstructure consisted of steel girders, deck panel and railing posts, while its substructures were fullheight reinforced concrete abutments founded on castin-place spread footings. The bridge approaches have an embankment fill, protected with grouted riprap structures. Also present at the said activity were officials from DAR Central Office and Regional Director James Arsenio Ponce, Tarlac local executives led by Vice Governor Carlito David and

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

NEWS BRIEFS

DPWH Region III kicks-off skills enhancement webinar series for district communicators

round 75 employees of the Department of Public Works and Highways throughout Region III participated in the skills enhancement webinar organized by the Regional Public Affairs and Information Office in collaboration with Top Link Global College, Inc. and Philippine Information Agency - Central Luzon. Although the webinar was initially intended for the training and development of district communicators, DPWH Regional Office III Remedios Q. Laurel encouraged that all employees responsible for making office communications be included in this program. The first session of the webinar series began on March 22 with Mr. Roderick George Marrero Alangui-Zhang, Head Teacher of Choice and Success International Language School and a Lecturer at Regent International College as the resource speaker for the topic English Proficiency: Understanding the Basics. Alangui-Zhang began the session with a language assessment that was participated

by all the webinar attendees followed by a discussion concerning grammar, speaking, pronunciation, grammar pet peeves and Filipinism. The second session continued on March 23 where Alangui-Zhang gave a lecture on workplace communication, public speaking, and report and letter writing. And for the third session on March 24, PIA Central Luzon Deputy Regional Director Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu taught Basic News Writing and conducted a workshop in the afternoon to assess the writing skills of the attendees. In a statement, Region III Director Roseller Tolentino stressed the importance of empowering DPWH employees, especially those under the public affairs and information offices, when it comes to communicating with its stakeholders. The public will better appreciate the agency’s contribution to national development if they are regularly informed of DPWH’s achievements that have had a positive impact on communities throughout Central Luzon.

8 Department of Public Works and Highways

RD Tolentino had already expressed his full support to the district communicators when he first met them at a virtual meeting last year. He also gave instructions to the District Engineers to hire qualified employees and provide them with adequate equipment to sustain the operations of their respective information offices. Meanwhile, Assistant Regional Director Denise Maria Ayag also lauded the accomplishments of top-performing District Public Affairs and Information Units who were recognized by the Regional Public Affairs and Information Office during the first-ever Public Information and Communication Excellence Awards that include Tarlac 1st, Nueva Ecija 2nd, Aurora, Pampanga 1st and Nueva Ecija 1st District Engineering Offices. Jervin Marasigan of DPWH RPAIO and Patricia Anne Manalo of Pampanga 3rd DPAIU served as facilitators of the webinar series.###

BOOSTED BOOSTED

NEWS BRIEFS

DPWH Secretary Mercado visits Central Luzon, checks progress of ongoing projects

ublic Works Acting Secretary Roger G. Mercado conducted on January 31, 2022 the inspection of three (3) projects being implemented by the agency in Pampanga. These projects include the ongoing Alternate Site Building of DPWH Region III located within the DPWH Regional Office compound, a six-storey multipurpose structure with a total floor area of 25,530 square meters. In his briefing, Regional Director Roseller Tolentino informed the Secretary that the first three floors of the building will serve as the new regional headquarters of the DPWH, while the remaining upper floors will be made as an extension office and command center of the DPWH Management Committee which can be used in the event of any disaster.

The Secretary proceeded to the newly constructed standard office building of Pampanga 1st District Engineering, also inside the DPWH Regional Office III compound. Implemented by the first engineering district of Pampanga, the new office building will provide office employees with better mobility and a more convenient and work-friendly environment. Mercado also inspected the ongoing Angeles-Magalang Bypass Road Project - a multiyear project started in 2019. The project includes the development of 2-lane and 4-lane roads with a total length of 2.605 km of which 1,080 km of it are existing, and the construction of the NLEX Overpass with a length of 84 meters. Once the project has been completed by the Pampanga 3rd District Engineering Office headed by District Engineer Arleen C Beltran, it is expected

that the heavy traffic that is often experienced at the intersection of Magalang-Angeles Road and Don Aniceto Gueco Avenue will be solved. “It will be a big relief to motorists if we can shorten to 30-minutes the previously long trip between Brgy. Balibago in Angeles City to Magalang and as explained by RD Tolentino, this road could serve as an alternative route and it will help to ease the heavy traffic experienced in Pulung Maragul Rotonda due to the large volumes of vehicles passing the area,” Sec. Mercado said. Welcoming the Secretary were Assistant Regional Director Denise Maria Ayag and the officials and employees of the Office.###

RD x SEC RD x SEC

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

NEWS BRIEFS

DPWH Region III joins ISARAP regional launch

he regional launch of the Integrated Sustainable, Assistance, Recovery, and Advancement Program (ISARAP) was simultaneously held on March 26, 2022 in General Tinio in Nueva Ecija; City of San Jose del Monte in Bulacan; and City of San Fernando in Pampanga.

“The participating DPWH offices in Region III have collaborated with our project contractors for their manpower requirements needed for the implementation of their projects in the three provinces,” Public Works and Highways Region III Director Roseller Tolentino said.

Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineer Elpidio Trinidad and Pampanga 1st District Engineer Almer Miranda said that about eleven project contractors agreed to consider for employment all job applicants who registered at the information booths of the two engineering offices.

The said convergence program, seen as an onsite job recruitment was organized by all participating national government agencies that likewise aim to bring basic services, provide employment and other forms of assistance to the poor residents in various communities.

Meanwhile, Bulacan 2nd District Engineer George DC. Santos reported that representatives of the three contractors from his area joined the Bulacan 2nd Public Affairs and Information Team for the conduct of onsite job recruitment.

“Apart from employment, our information booths entertained walk-ins and addressed all queries regarding our programs and services. It is an opportunity for us to directly educate and inform the public of what the government, particularly our agency, on matters of infrastructure, is doing for our people,” RD Tolentino further quipped. ###

ISARA PROGRAM

DPWH Region III provides financial aid to Typhoon Odette victims

he Department of Public Works and Highways - Region III extended financial assistance in support of the relief operations organized by DPWH Regional Office VII to help the victims of Typhoon Odette. In a statement, Public Works Region 3 Director Roseller A

Tolentino said that given the magnitude of the damage caused by the typhoon, he is aware that aid to the families severely affected by the recent disaster needs to be delivered more quickly. “We immediately contacted DPWH Region VII Director Edgar B. Tabacon and we were informed

10 Department of Public Works and Highways

of the planned relief operations in Brgy. Madridejos, Alegria, Cebu,” RD Tolentino explained. The cash donated by DPWH Region III was used by DPWH Region VII to purchase relief supplies that were distributed to five hundred households on January 1, 2022.###

NEWS BRIEFS

Top performing district info units recognized

he Department of Public Works and HighwaysRegional Office III recognized the top performing public affairs and information units in Central Luzon at the inaugural Public Information and Communications Excellence (PICE) Awards held virtually via Zoom on March 4, 2022.

agency’s achievements in the region for the year 2021.

In the said activity, District Public Affairs and Information Units (DPAIUs) that comply with Public Information and Feedback Management requirements such as publishing newsletters, regularly submitting news and video releases and Quarterly Customer Satisfaction Survey Reports, and for resolving complaints in accordance with the timelines set out in Ease of Doing Business Act of 2018 were given recognition.

The different public affairs and information units that have been cited for the effective performance of their duties related to citizen feedback management and public information were as follows:

DPWH Region III Director Roseller A. Tolentino acknowledged the active role of District Information Officers in informing the public of the

Tolentino also urged all district communicators to ensure the timely release of news and video materials to make people aware of the infrastructure projects implemented by the office as well as the benefits it can provide.

All fourteen information offices received special citations for resolving all customer feedback referred to their offices that were given concrete and specific action for the period March to December 2021. All public affairs and information units were

also given recognition for publishing their official newsletters. The top performing information units for the year 2021 were given recognition and these include Tarlac 1st DEO DPAIU, ranked 1st; Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO DPAIU, ranked 2nd; Aurora DEO DPAIU, ranked 3rd; Pampanga 1st DEO DPAIU, ranked 4th; and Nueva Ecija 1st DEO DPAIU, ranked 5th. Meanwhile, Marlea G. Tiongson and Ma. Jaynevive Ortiz Luiz of the Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office were honored for their efforts to ensure that all complaints received by their office were acted upon immediately. The top trending news and videos for 2021 were also cited.###

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES

Construction works on 22.78-km bypass road in Bulacan in full swing

epartment of Public Works and Highways Region III Director Roseller A. Tolentino emphasized the agency’s determination to expand road networks in Central Luzon and provide alternative routes connecting towns and provinces with the opening of new bypasses. “ In recent years, the Department has opened new bypass and diversion roads such as the Angeles-Magalang Bypass Road in Pampanga and the Ciudad de Victoria Bypass Road in Bulacan to accommodate local and regional traffic, increase mobility and improve the reliability of travel time throughout the region,” RD Tolentino stressed. The Regional Director also said that another bypass road in Bulacan is underway and construction works on the multiyear San Rafael-San IldefonsoSan Miguel Bypass Road project are in full swing.

The 22.78-kilometer, 4-lane bypass road project with a total cost of P5.40 billion aims to provide an extended alternative route from the congested Daang Maharlika in San Rafael that will pass through San Ildefonso to San Miguel. The project starts at the existing Plaridel Bypass Road and will intersect M. Valte Road - a primary route going to industrial sites in San Ildefonso, and San Miguel-Sibul Road. RD Tolentino also said that the DPWH Regional Office is currently conducting a feasibility study for a 40-kilometer bypass that will connect Cabanatuan City in Nueva Ecija to San Miguel, Bulacan, thus the possibility that a new alternate road parallel to Daang Maharlika may be realized. “It is no longer possible to widen several sections of Daang Maharlika so if we can connect this bypass in Bulacan with the proposed one in Nueva Ecija, we

12 Department of Public Works and Highways

can provide the public with an alternative route when traveling between the two provinces,” RD Tolentino said. From 2018 to 2020, an estimated P396-million has been released for the construction and improvement of the San RafaelSan Ildefonso Section of the said bypass road and RD Tolentino is ensuring that annual funding requirements for this multi-year project are included in the budget proposals of the Regional Office until it is completed in 2025. “This bypass road project is part of our connectivity strategy to shorten inter-provincial travel, improve mobility, and ensure seamless and uninterrupted travel on the region’s core road networks,” RD Tolentino reiterated.###

BYPASS

ROAD

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES

DPWH Regional Office III kicks-off construction of new access road in Bagac, Bataan

he Department of Public Works and HighwaysRegional Office III has started the construction of the 7.6-kilometer new access road in Barangay Quinawan in Bagac, Bataan that will pave for easy trips to major tourism destinations in the province. Regional Director Roseller Tolentino stated that his office is now working on the first phase of the multi-year project which includes the opening of 1.585-kilometer of the road section. The project received an initial budget of P150-million under the FY 2021 General Appropriations Act.

“This new road leading to the coastal destinations of Bagac starts from the Bagac-Mariveles Road. As of February 28, 2022, its initial phase has posted a 75% completion rate. The project involves earthworks to include clearing and grubbing, removal of structures and other obstructions, excavation, embankment and subgrade preparation, ” RD Tolentino said. The first phase of the project deals with the construction of a 230-lineal meter stone masonry wall with a line canal on the mountain side that will serve as slope protection and drainage. A metal guardrail beam will also be placed on the side of the ravine for the safety of road users.

BRGY. QUINAWAN

RD Tolentino further stated that the required budget for the improvement of the remaining sections of the access road has already been requested. “We are continually improving road connectivity to achieve our mission to develop the tourism potentials of the country as it is a sure enabler for economic development and buffer for economic slumps brought about by crises that out country has just recently experienced,” Tolentino remarked. In previous years, Region III completed several access roads in the region, like those going to Ditabuyan Falls in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija; Monasterio de Tarlac in San Jose; and Dueg Ecotourism Nature’s Park in San Clemente, Tarlac.###

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

Congratulations!

PRIMO C. CAMPANO ENGINEER II

JASPER B. FRANCISCO ALYZA ANN TAPNIO

ENGINEER III

ENGINEER II

TOP 5 REASONS Why You Need ISO 9001 for Quality Management

https://www.compliancequest.com/ blog/5-reasons-why-you-need-iso-90 01-for-quality-management/?fbclid=IwAR2GkNGx0EYs-ZgaEIgLH7ArPrly4Rk-dhpElck99sJ__e3uTuB5LRkxT8M

KONKRETONG AKSYON https://www.facebook.com/ dpwhregion3/ posts/343668887803117

he DPWH Pampanga 2nd District Engineering Office immediately responded to an accident that occurred on March 29, 2022. According to District Engineer Gregorio Audea, Jr., Maintenance Section personnel were immediately deployed to assist in the removal of an overturned van that caused traffic along Brgy. San Antonio, Guagua, Pampanga. As of 8:30 PM of the same day, the Maintenance Section reported that the vehicle involved in the accident had been removed.###

Guimba resident commends DPWH NE 1st DEO’s swift action on drainage concerns

he Nueva Ecija 1st District Engineering Office was commended in a social media post for its immediate response to the call of residents to unclog a canal along Barangay Sta. Veronica in Guimba, Nueva Ecija. In the said post by Rhea Gamboa Leyva, she extended her gratitude to Maintenance Point Person (MPP) Marciano S. Mauricio, Jr. and also to their mayor and municipal engineer for their swift action. According to District Maintenance Engineer Homer J. Garcia, declogging operations

were conducted in collaboration with the Guimba Local Government to remove the accumulated debris in the drainage system and restore its depth to prevent overflow.

will be intensified before the onset of the rainy season.###

“Nakakataba ng puso na makitang may nakaka-appreciate ng trabaho natin. Tayo naman, ginagawa lang natin ang tungkulin natin na panatilihing maayos ang drainage system at mga kalsada. Maraming salamat sa ating mga MPP at roadside workers!” Garcia said. Meanwhile, MPP Mauricio said that the cleaning of line canals under the jurisdiction of the DEO is being carried out regularly and

https://www.facebook.com/ dpwhregion3/ posts/342725727897433

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

GAD CORNER

2022 National Women’s Month celebration

chieve gender equality and empower all women and girls!

This has been the focus of the advocacy campaigns launched by various offices of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Central Luzon in celebration of 2022 National Women’s Month with the sub-theme “Agenda ng Kababaihan, Tungo sa Kaunlaran”. In a statement, Public Works Region III Director Roseller A.

Tolentino acknowledged the significant contribution of women in their office and stressed that DPWH remains a gender responsive agency that actively promotes gender equality and empowerment of women. “We are united in our efforts to ensure that women’s rights are upheld and our female employees have equal opportunities in the workplace. Women have always proven their skills and abilities in construction-related work

regional office

16 Department of Public Works and Highways

implemented by our agency; thus, they should be given all the opportunities to participate in activities associated with infrastructure development,” RD Tolentino said. The Regional Office as well as several District Engineering Offices in Central Luzon have shown their support for women through various activities that recognize the role of women in society and in advancing women’s agendas.###

GAD CORNER

bataan 1st deo

bulacan 1st deo

bulacan 2nd deo

nueva ecija 1st deo

nueva ecija 2nd deo

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

GAD CORNER

pampanga 2nd deo

pampanga 3rd deo

TARLAC 1ST deo

TARLAC 2ND deo

18 Department of Public Works and Highways

GAD CORNER

Agenda ng Kababaihan, Tungo sa Kaunlaran: PCW Message on the Culmination of the 2022 National Women’s Month Celebration The 2022 National Women’s Month Celebration (NWMC) culminates today but the advocacy towards gender equality and women’s empowerment carries on. The Philippine Commission on Women calls on everyone to continue celebrating Juanas from all walks of life even beyond the National Women’s Month, because they deserve the honor every single day. We salute all Juanas who are breaking the glass ceiling, Juanas who serve and lead, Juanas who work for and take care of their families and communities, Juanas who catalyze changes in their fields, Juanas who thrive, and Juanas who help build the nation in their own ways. Coinciding with the last day of March 2022 is the culmination of the NWMC recurring theme since 2017, “WE Make CHANGE Work for Women”. At this turning point, agencies and institutions must recognize the wins and gains achieved for women and girls and also assess if we have, indeed, made change work for women. We must continuously examine our efforts in integrating gender in programs, policies, projects, and activities so that these will enable and empower women through compassionate and harmonized actions and networks.

Studies show that the pandemic could reverse the progress towards gender parity, with the situation worsening inequalities. The pandemic increased women’s unpaid care work, put women out of work or businesses, dipped economic opportunities for them, exposed women frontliners to various risks, forced girls out of school, escalated forms of violence, further exposed other gender gaps, and exacerbated vulnerabilities in social, political, and economic aspects. Hence, the PCW urges agencies and stakeholders to be proactive in their Gender and Development (GAD) efforts so we will not backslide in this endeavor. The key is ensuring a gender-responsive and inclusive COVID-19 recovery, a postpandemic backdrop founded on basic human rights and equities where no Juana is left behind. True to the sub-theme “Agenda ng Kababaihan, Tungo sa Kaunlaran”, we must integrate women’s agenda in our development efforts. When we address the issues of Juanas – who comprise half of the population – it is only then can we achieve genuine and sustainable progress.

In this light, the PCW continues to push for gender equality and women’s empowerment in leadership, governance, and public service. This is an opportune call as we approach the national and local elections. Pursuant to the Magna Carta of Women, Juanas must be able to represent and participate in the tables where decisions and policies are being made. To serve as a roadmap for future leaders and the government, the PCW will be releasing the results of the Pulso para sa Kababaihan, Tungo sa Kaunlaran Online Poll, set to run until April 18, 2022 and we invite everyone to look into the gender issues laid down by Juanas and Juans and craft programs with these in consideration. Looking forward, we also encourage our legislators to be our partners in eradicating discriminatory provisions in existing laws and developing policies that can promote, not curtail, women’s rights. The PCW’s Women’s Priority Legislative Agenda gained traction in the recent year, with the passage of laws we supported: Republic Act No. 11596 which prohibits and criminalizes child marriage signed in December 2021 and

As we look back at what we already achieved, we also look forward to what remains to be done. This is timely and imperative as the country reels from the COVID-19 pandemic — a health crisis with dire gendered impacts.

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

GAD CORNER

Republic Act No. 11648 which raised the age of sexual consent from 12 to 16 years old, enacted in time of the first week of Women’s Month.

shows that it can take about 135.6 years to attain equality for genders. This means that even our children or their children will not yet experience gender parity.

While there are triumphs, we still have legal challenges to hurdle and we hope that present and future lawmakers will join our cause for gender-responsive legislation.

However, this must not dishearten GAD advocates but instead, this must inspire us to hasten and further reinforce our efforts to empower all genders.

But while laws and policies are vital, they are not sufficient. We have to put life into the laws, programs, activities, and projects by ensuring that these translate to concrete changes that are felt by women in the grassroots. One significant issue that must be acted upon is advancing gender equality in the context of climate change and disaster risk reduction, rightfully the focus of this year’s International Women’s Day, with the theme “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”. The PCW urges stakeholders to intersect gender lens and involve Juanas in climate change action and disaster preparedness and mitigation. Indeed, the road to gender equality is long and difficult. The Global Gender Gap Report 2021

We call on the government agencies, private institutions, civil society organizations, academe, local government units from provinces to barangays, and every person to help address the continuing and emerging issues that slow down our progress towards equality. After reigniting our passion for this advocacy this National Women’s Month, we must show in full force that we are united in this pursuit through tangible actions and solutions. The PCW extends its gratitude to participating agencies and partners with the hope that this month spurred discussions, led to realizations, and set our advocacy in full motion. Let us not falter in our vision: That the next generations of women will have equal rights,

live a life without discrimination, violence, and stereotypes, and are respected, honored, and celebrated every day, just as they should be or just as any gender should be. When that day comes, they have you, present GAD advocates, to thank for. Lastly, to all Juanas, this celebration is a reminder that you are strong, magnificent, beautiful in all ways, exemplary, diligent, brilliant, compassionate and passionate, innovative, resilient, and powerful. For being trendsetters, peacemakers, innovators, and harbingers of change in the family, community, and country — we honor and celebrate you, during Women’s Month and beyond. Isulong ang Agenda ng Kababaihan, Tungo sa Kaunlaran! In all months and in all the succeeding years, let us continue to make CHANGE work for women.### https://pcw.gov.ph/ agenda-ng-kababaihan-tungo-sa-kaunlaran-pcw-message-on-the-culmination-of-the-2022-national-womens-month-celebration/?fbclid=IwAR1ZlR8on02p1M_ RqVusIWDDVIXXkFhntHFCHQaA9iPKFa1p-JCdyCvTWqU

PH, JICA Ink Agreement to Advance Disaster Mitigation in Coastal Areas

he Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has partnered anew with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to enable the Philippines increase its capacity of coping with climate change through engineering approach. DPWH Secretary Roger G. Mercado and JICA Philippines Office Chief Representative Eigo Azukizawa signed on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 the Record of Discussions for the Capacity Development in Coastal Engineering for Disaster Resiliency Project, focusing on resilience of coastal communities against disasters. The signing event held at DPWH Central Office was also participated by DPWH Undersecretary for Unified Project Management Office (UPMO) Operations Emil K. Sadain; UPMO Flood Control Management Cluster Project Director Ramon Arriola III; Project Manager Dolores Hipolito, Project Manager Jerry Fano, and Mr. Masanaki Yamagiuchi and Ms. Chihiro Mototani of JICA. In his message, Secretary Mercado thanked the Government of Japan thru JICA for its sustained support to the Philippines in developing not just the quality of road and transport infrastructure but also in making communities in

the archipelago more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. Earlier, Secretary Mercado and Undersecretary Sadain participated at the 12th meeting thru teleconference format of the Japan-Philippines High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation and reported the status of some big-ticket projects under JICA financing. The said projects are the Dalton Pass East Alignment Project, Central Mindanao Highway Project - Cagayan de Oro-Malaybalay Section, Parañaque Spillway/Tunnel Project, Davao City Flood Control and Drainage Project, and Urgent Bridges Construction Project for Rural Development Phase 2. According to Undersecretary Sadain, Chief Implementer of Flagship Projects under Build Build Build Program, Japansupported big-ticket projects have played a crucial role in shaping and bolstering the Philippine infrastructure landscape and the new cooperation between JICA and DPWH on coastal infrastructure is expected to help effectively meet the challenges of climate change and build safe, resilient, and sustainable communities. The Project for the Capacity Development in Coastal

https://www.dpwh. gov.ph/dpwh/news/ 25900#:~:text=PH%2C%20JICA%20 Ink%20Agreement%20 to%20Advance%20 Disaster%20Mitigation,of%20coping%20 with%20climate%20 change%20 through%20engineering%20approach.

Engineering for Disaster Resiliency in DPWH has a project duration of five (5) years from the date of 1st dispatch of JICA Experts in July 2021. The project involves a twostep planning method: 1) Basic Planning Survey where implementation structures are determined, and 2) Detailed Planning Survey where detailed plan is formulated to start the core activities of the project. Core activities of the project involve: lectures, case studies, development of guidelines, implementation of at least three (3) pilot projects, establishment of human resources development program on coastal engineering and the creation of roadmap. Case studies will be implemented 3-4 times a year, wherein 2 cases are examined in each time. On the other hand, the Project Road Map, focuses on providing directions on better coastline management thru actual examples observed in the Philippines, such as improvement of existing laws and policies, strategies and regulations, land use, setting of clear demarcation/responsibility of related organizations, law enforcement, public awareness/ education and technical knowledge dissemination/training of technical staff.###

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

CENTRAL NEWS

DPWH completes 1,321 projects in Central Luzon for 2021

onsistent with its role to provide quality road infrastructure, the Department of Public Works and Highways accomplished 1,321 projects under the 2021 Regular Infrastructure Program in Region 3. In his report to DPWH Secretary Roger G. Mercado, DPWH Region 3 Director Roseller Tolentino said that Central Luzon Region with 14 District Engineering Offices (DEOs) has completed and rehabilitated 98.68-kilometers of road amounting to P2.68 billion; 22.3-kilometers of asphalt overlay project amounting P244 million; and rehabilitated 20 bridges costing P428 million. Also completed in 2021 are 19,507 lineal meters of drainage, 43,985 square meters of road

with slips slope, and 41,469 square meters of road slope protection structure. “ We congratulate the hardworking officials, employees, and construction workers of DPWH Regional Office 3 and the DEOs who tirelessly worked on ground in spite of the pandemic for this accomplishment wouldn’t be possible without them,” said Secretary Mercado. DPWH also implemented projects of non-infrastructure agencies such as 55.11-kilometers of farm to market roads in convergence with the Department of Agriculture; 70 school buildings funded by the Department of Education under the Basic Educational Facilities Fund (BEFF); 12 infrastructure facilities under

the Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad (TIKAS) Program with the Department of National Defese (DND), public markets funded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and 12 COVID-19 temporary treatment and monitoring facilities. “We are fast-tracking the completion of 297 ongoing projects under the 2021 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and start the 222 remaining projects to improve mobility and provide better access to services to the people,” added Director Tolentino.###

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/ DPWH/news/26004

1,321 PROJECTS

22 Department of Public Works and Highways

CENTRAL NEWS

2021 Regular Infrastructure Projects | Total number of Projects = 1,840

DPWH Region III has received a total budget of P39.841 Billion

BY THE NUMBERS 206 roads 31 bridges 169 flood control 116

convergence & special support program

1,318

local infrastructure program Regional Office III - Central Luzon

NATIONAL NEWS

DPWH goes all-out in widening of Bulacan’s Arterial Bypass Road

he Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced on Friday, March 18, that it has increased its manpower and accelerated the road widening activities of the Arterial (Plaridel) Bypass Road in Bulacan.

He also instructed the contractors and consultants to ensure sufficient provision of road construction barricades around the work zones to increase safety for workers, motorists, and pedestrians, during his inspection on March 16.

According to DPWH Undersecretary for Unified Project Management Office (UPMO) Emil K. Sadain, the widening of 24.61-kilometer road from two lanes to four will result in faster delivery of local goods of Central Luzon and Cagayan Valley Region to Metro Manila.

According to the department, the project covers the construction of seven short bridges with a total length of 241 meters (m), two flyovers, 10 underpasses, drainage facilities, and slope protection works, installation of road signs, kilometer posts, guardrails, and pavement markings.

“The construction of two additional road lanes as the ultimate stage of Arterial Plaridel Bypass Road will alleviate the slow movement of the increasing volume of vehicles on the existing two-way two-lane bypass road,” Sadain said in a statement.

The ongoing road widening, implemented by the DPWH-UPMO Roads Management Cluster 1 (Bilateral) headed by Project Director Benjamin A. Bautista, is under the third phase of the project funded by a loan agreement between the government and the

24 Department of Public Works and Highways

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). For safety purposes, the DPWH has assured the compliance of contractors and workers with the construction and health safety guidelines imposed by the government.### https://mb.com.ph/2022/03/19/ dpwh-goes-all-out-on-widening-of-bulacans-arterial-bypass-road/?fbclid=IwAR2j3y4C85_b9SLWK02UxU-6iVD-D5GOWRkv-HYy3ryWVxUrVUyQL2WhZTs

NATIONAL NEWS

Base effects, Covid easing fuel 31% infra spending rise

TATE infrastructure spending jumped by 31.3 percent year-on-year to P895.1 billion in 2021 driven by lower base effects and easing of quarantine restrictions. Latest data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) showed government infrastructure spending last year rose by P213.5 billion from P681.5 billion in 2020. The amount spent by the national government on infrastructure and other capital outlays last year was also above the P761.2 billion program for the year by 17.6 percent. The DBM attributed the “ significant expansion ” in infrastructure and other capital outlays to the combined effects of lower base in 2020 with the discontinuation of some capital outlay projects which can no longer be implemented or completed due to the pandemic in line with Bayanihan 1 and 2. Also identified as a spending driver is the implementation of various infrastructure projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the aviation and rail transport foreign-assisted projects of the Department of Transportation (DOTr). Higher infrastructure spending and personnel services expenditures last year also drove the 10.6-percent growth in overall government spending to P4.68 trillion from P4.23 trillion in the previous year.

For December alone, government infrastructure spending inched up by 1.5 percent to P134.7 billion from P132.7 billion in the same month in 2020 given the releases for the Revised AFP Modernization Program (RAFPMP) of the Department of National Defense and the construction of Smart Campuses in Marawi. However, the DBM said the growth in infrastructure spending for the month was partly trimmed by the timing of direct payments made by development partners for the foreign-assisted projects of the DOTr. For this year, the government programmed to spend P1.27 trillion or 5.9 percent of the country’s GDP. Under the 2022 national budget, the DPWH and DOTr have P786.6 billion and P75.8 billion, respectively, to accelerate the Duterte administration’s infrastructure flagship projects under the Build, Build, Build. In view of the Comelec election ban on the construction of public works, the DBM said the government has taken the necessary steps to minimize potential disruptions.

https://businessmirror.com. ph/2022/03/28/base-effectscovid-easing-fuel-31-infraspending-rise/

being implemented, especially for those hit by Typhoon Odette in December 2021,” it said. Overall government spending this year is expected to reach P4.95 trillion, up by 6 percent compared to the previous year, the DBM said. Despite the expected lower growth in overall government spending this year compared to the previous years, the DBM said the current budget priorities reflect the government’s strong commitment to the economy’s recovery. “ While the growth of disbursements this year is lower when compared to last year’s 10.6 percent and 2020’s 11.3 percent as the government spent heavily on Covid-19 emergency and recovery measures in the past years, the commitment to sustain the growth momentum remains, as depicted in this year’s budget priorities and the strategy to safely reopen the economy, even as the government begins to consolidate fiscally,” it said.###

“Relatedly, in anticipation of the said election-related prohibition, the DPWH has filed for exemption of 18 projects from the election ban,” the DBM said in its report. “Meanwhile, the DSWD also requested for exemption from the election ban to be able to proceed with relief distribution and other important programs

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

FEATURE STORY

MAINTENANCE DIVISION

RODOLFO S. DAVID

HERCULES P. CARREON JR.

DIVISION CHIEF

ASSISTANT DIVISION CHIEF

MARISA L. MIGUEL

JUANAFE V. MAGPAYO

SECTION CHIEF

MANAGEMENT

26 Department of Public Works and Highways

INSPECTORATE

FEATURE STORY

nfrastructure is essential to the economic development of a country and the numerous public structures built by the Department of Public Works and Highways in Central Luzon contribute to the development of rural communities by linking them in major regional economies thus raising the standard of living which boosts the overall well-being of the people. However, these infrastructure facilities also deteriorate and suffers wear and tear after intensive use without proper maintenance, therefore, it is important to ensure the protection of these infrastructure assets to slow their deterioration and increase their lifespan. In the study, What Is the Value of Infrastructure Maintenance? A Survey by Felix Rioja, it was found that neglect of proper maintenance of infrastructure leads to deterioration of its condition, and infrastructure in bad condition imposes costs on users. Failure to maintain infrastructure in a timely manner also leads to greater rebuilding costs. Undoubtedly, maintenance works are needed for physical infrastructure to ensure public safety, but spending on infrastructure maintenance is not just for keeping assets in order but as an investment that yields significant both shortterm and long-term benefits, this is according to the article Infrastructure Maintenance: Among G20 Top Priorities written by Luisa M. Mimmi. The Regional Maintenance Division actively monitors the implementation of maintenance work programs carried out by the different District Engineering Offices necessary to maintain and preserve all public structures located within the region. “Our primary duty is to ensure that national roads, public buildings, and other infrastructure facilities are reliable, well-maintained and safe for public use,” Maintenance

Division Chief Rodolfo S. David explained. In addition, the Maintenance Division also monitors the implementation of other types of activities conducted by the District Maintenance Sections such as the removal of rightof-way obstructions as well as the supervision of operation and maintenance of permanent weighbridge and mobile truck weighing stations (ATOME).

Further, as part of the government’s disaster preparedness program and COVID-19 pandemic response, the Division was also assigned to oversee the district offices’ implementation of various disaster risk preparedness and management strategies such as the quarterly conduct of National Simultaneous Earthquake Drills and the construction of modular health (Continued on page 28)

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

FEATURE STORY

(Maintenance Division... Continued from page 27)

care facilities and other related structures. “We do our best to fulfill our mandate of ensuring that all public structures are properly maintained for the safety of all users. We believe that the efficient and timely maintenance of our infrastructures will help boost growth as well as the development and well-being of the people and our economy,” Engr. David said.###

28 Department of Public Works and Highways

DIVISION

MAINTENANCE

FEATURE STORY

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

DISTRICT NEWS

Secretary Mercado Visits PA’s Army Artillery Regiment, inspects ongoing TIKAS projects

epartment of Public Works and Highways Acting Secretary Roger G. Mercado visited the Army Artillery Regiment’s Headquarters inside Fort Ramon Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija to assess the development of projects implemented under the “Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad” (TIKAS) convergence program of the agency and the Department of National Defense (DND). Sec. Mercado together with TIKAS Coordinator Retired General John Dominic Pulido, Public Works Region III Director Roseller A. Tolentino, Assistant Director Denise Maria M. Ayag, Nueva

Ecija 2nd District Engineer Elpidio Y. Trinidad, and OIC-Assistant District Engineer Robert Jay N. Panaligan were received by BGen Romulo A Manuel Jr, Commander, Army Artillery Regiment on March 3, 2022. Among the projects inspected are the two (2) units of Training Barracks worth P19.5-million that will be used by AAR personnel while they undergo training. “For the past years, the Duterte Administration has given its fullsupport in the improvement of military facilities through the implementation of projects under the TIKAS Program. According to DE Trinidad, our Nueva Ecija 2nd

30 Department of Public Works and Highways

district office has implemented ten (10) projects amounting to P206-million in 2021, and this year, eighteen (18) more projects funded under the FY 2022 General Appropriations Act with a total value of P304.4 million are scheduled to be implemented. These projects are for the various units of the Philippine Army stationed here inside the camp,” Sec. Mercado said. A foyer honor was given to Sec. Mercado upon his arrival followed by the guest book signing, executive session, tour of facilities and inspection of DPWH implemented projects.###

DISTRICT NEWS

2-Storey multipurpose evacuation center breaks ground in Dingalan

2-storey multipurpose evacuation center worth P9.6 million will be built by the Department of Public Works and HighwaysAurora District Engineering Office on a 360-square meter property in Brgy Umiray, Dingalan, Aurora. To mark the start of project construction, a groundbreaking ceremony was held on February 4, 2022 witnessed by Aurora Lone Representative Rommel Rico T. Angara, Dingalan Mayor Shierwin H. Taay, Vice-Mayor Edgardo R. Galvez and local officials of Brgy. Umiray. In a statement, Arch. Dexter Tolentino of the Planning and Design Section said that they

expect the project to be completed in May this year - in time with the onset of the typhoon season. He also added that in the evacuation center’s design, they considered the safety and comfort of its users so they provided 12 separate toilet and bath facilities, an office room, and a storage area at the first level. “On the second floor of the building, it can accommodate 90 to 180 people depending on the bed to be used, whether single or double decker. A water system will be installed and a generator set will also be provided for power supply in case of power interruption specially during calamities,” Arch. Tolentino explained.

Brgy. Umiray is one of the areas of Dingalan considered to have moderate to high susceptibility to flooding and landslides. It is located near Dingalan Bay and is often hit by strong storms. Several residents expressed their gratitude for the government’s initiative to address the lack of comfortable and typhoon-resilient evacuation centers in times of calamities. Also present during the event were Assistant Construction Chief Edwin Hungriano and several other Aurora DEO employees.###

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

DISTRICT NEWS

DPWH holds initial public consultation for proposed Baler Bypass Road

he proposed construction of a 2.936-kilometer bypass road project that will link the towns of Baler and San Luis in Aurora was announced in a public consultation held on February 3, 2022 at the multipurpose covered court of the DPWH Aurora District Engineering Office in Barangay Reserva, Baler, Aurora. The meeting facilitated by DPWH Regional Office III in coordination with Aurora DEO was attended by key agency officials, local officials, and propertyowners who will be affected by the proposed road project. During the meeting, DPWH Region III Assistant Construction Division Chief Jayson S. Jauco explained that the four-lane bypass road connecting Brgy. Bacong in San Luis to Brgy. Buhangin in Baler will have a 6.7-meter carriageway width, 2.5-meter shoulder, and 0.30-meter pavement thickness. It was also designed to have a dedicated 1.5-meter bike lane and a 2-meter elevated sidewalk for the safety of pedestrians.

“The proposed road project will address the recurring congestion in the central town of Baler, particularly in Brgy. Buhangin where bottlenecks usually occur during rush hour. Once completed, the travel time between San Luis and the Aurora’s provincial capital will be shortened,” Engr. Jauco explained. Engr. Jauco also clarified that the meeting was convened to discuss the technical aspects and advantages of the project, as well as to thresh out possible drawbacks that may arise such as the acquisition of road right-of-way and other concerns that may be confronted during project implementation. The Assistant Division Chief also added that a parcellary survey has already been conducted and the properties to

be traversed by the project have been identified. To further clarify the issues regarding the acquisition, assessment and payment of RROW, Atty. Reylyn Grace P. Gaddi of the Regional Office’s Legal Division highlighted the salient points of Republic Act 10752 also known as “An Act Facilitating the Acquisition for Right-of-Way Site or Location for National Government Infrastructure Projects”. “The Legal Division will process the payment of RROW claims which also includes all improvements on the affected lot. The basis of payment will depend on the current market value as appraised by the independent appraiser, which is a Government Financial Institution (GFI), upon submission of the required documents such as certified true of Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT), certified true copy of Tax Declaration, certified true copy of Tax Declaration of Improvements (if any), Certification of No Improvements (CNI), 2 valid government issued IDs, and Tax Identification of (TIN) of the owner,” Atty. Gaddi elaborated. Atty. Gaddi likewise requested the full cooperation of all affected property owners to expedite the processing and resolution of RROW concerns so as not to delay the completion of the road project.

32 Department of Public Works and Highways

DISTRICT NEWS

Meanwhile, several residents and property-owners expressed their concerns pertaining to RROW acquisition. Among the questions raised at the meeting were connected with the valuation or appraisal of properties and processing of payment for just compensation. Some even requested the scheduling of another meeting to be attended by other government agencies such as the Registry of Deeds, Department of Agrarian Reform, and the Local Government Units involved. “We want these agencies to be part of this discussion since we have valid queries on the conversion of the classification of our properties and tenants’ rights,” one of the attendees remarked. ADEO Chief Planning Engr. Nicomedes G. Nohay made clear that the proposed construction of the Baler Bypass Road was in fact requested by local executives of both Baler and San Luis LGUs who assured their full assistance in settling the RROW claims. Atty. Gaddi and Engr. Jauco reassured the affected landowners that they will be coordinating with the concerned LGUs and fully assist in the processing of settlement claims. They also underscored the positive socio-economic impact of the project which could help boost local economies and could open up more development opportunities in the area. Also joining the said meeting were Engr. Edward Bonilla, Engr. Nestor Dayao, Jr., Engr. Kelvin Santos, and Ms. Jhayme Lyn Franco of the Regional Office; ADEO officials headed by Assistant District Engineer Emerson T. Abella with Arch. Neil Dexter P. Tolentino and Mr. Alvin T. Manzanares.###

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

DISTRICT NEWS

Meycauayan’s Marcos Bridge in poor condition, to receive replacement

ublic Works and Highways Bulacan 2nd District Engineer George DC. Santos announced that the aging Marcos Bridge, locally known as Tawiran Bridge in the City of Meycauayan is scheduled to be replaced with a new structure that conforms to the latest DPWH standard bridge seismic design specifications. Although the bridge remains in operation and open, DE Santos said that they have already observed advanced deterioration of its structural elements. This local bridge is currently classified as “poor” in condition and its structural deficiencies need to be addressed immediately. DE Santos added that the replacement of the local bridge that connects Meycauayan City and the Municipality of Obando will cost P300 million. The project

received an initial allocation of P100 million in the FY 2022 General Appropriations Act and the additional funding needed to complete the project has also been included in the proposed 2023 budget. “The initial project funding received is for the construction of new bridge substructures beneath the existing bridge which we expect to be completed within 240 calendar days. We will keep the bridge open to all types of vehicles during project implementation and although there are chances that our contractor will operate their equipment over the bridge, a traffic management plan will be implemented so as not to inconvenience motorists and pedestrians,” DE Santos clarified. The District Engineer also confirmed that they are in contact with LGU Meycauayan for traffic

34 Department of Public Works and Highways

enforcement and management as they expect moderate to heavy traffic in the area during construction. Heavy vehicles such as trucks and trailers will be rerouted to Mac Arthur Highway as they will no longer be allowed to pass Marcos Bridge once the project begins. Safety road signs and markings will be placed to inform motorists before entering the work zone to anticipate changes in road conditions ahead. “We are aware of the need to ensure the safety of all motorists and pedestrians crossing this bridge daily, and once we have finished the bridge replacement, the public will be provided with a safer and structurally sound structure that will be able to provide connectivity over the Meycauayan River,” DE Santos remarked.###

DISTRICT NEWS

DE Llado leads joint inspection of proposed site of Ala-uli flyover

fficials of the Department of Public Works and Highways Bataan 2nd District Engineering Office, Provincial Government of Bataan, Local Government of Pilar and representatives of Peninsula Electric Cooperative Incorporated (PENELCO) and other public utility companies conducted on January 25, 2022 a site walkthrough at the proposed location of the Ala-Uli Flyover in Pilar, Bataan. In a statement, Bataan 2nd District Engineer Ulysses C. Llado explained that the main purpose of the joint inspection is to assess the number of utility poles that may be affected by the project.

“To avoid any delay in project implementation, these utility facilities need to be immediately relocated to make way for the construction of the Ala-Uli flyover. Hence, we are in constant communication with our counterparts in the Bataan Provincial and Pilar Municipal Engineering Offices, and affected stakeholders such as the different telecommunication, cable and electric companies to expedite its removal and relocation,” DE Llado said. The District Engineer also cited the need to immediately address concerns regarding the electric poles of PENELCO

that were not yet repositioned after the widening of the Roman Expressway has been implemented and clarified that the DPWH is aware that these unmoved poles could cause road accidents. Also present during the joint inspection were representatives of the Bataan 2nd DEO Road Right-of-Way Unit and Pilar LGU, Engineers and Unit Heads of Pilar Municipal and Bataan Provincial Engineering Offices, PENELCO’s technical Division Chiefs, and members of the technical teams of GLOBE Telecom, PLDT, CONVERGE, DITO Telecommunity and Bataan Space Cable Network.###

DPWH, Aurora local executives break ground on new multipurpose building

he Department of Public Works and Highways Aurora District Engineering Office hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on February 18, 2022 to celebrate construction of a 3-storey multipurpose building that will be used by Barangay 3 local officials and by the Baler Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. In his message, Aurora DEO Construction Chief Benelito Pascua said that the construction

of the 3-storey facility with roof deck received a total budget allotment of P10-million from the 2022 General Appropriations Act and is expected to be completed within 180 calendar days. The entire building has a total size of 390 sqm and its first floor will serve as the Office of the Municipal Social Welfare & Development with amenities such as a lobby, comfort room, pantry, stock room and office spaces. The Barangay VAW Desk

and the Barangay Health Center are located on the 2nd floor, while the Office of the Barangay Captain and session hall are on the third floor. The event was also attended by Aurora Lone District Representative Rommel T. Angara, Baler Mayor Rhett Ronan T. Angara, and Barangay 3 local officials headed by Brgy. Captain Warren Querijero.###

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

DISTRICT NEWS

Work underway on San Jose City’s new bypass road

he Department of Public Works and Highways Nueva Ecija 1st District Engineering Office is accelerating the implementation of Caanawan - Kitakita Road or the San Jose City Bypass Road in Nueva Ecija which when completed will serve as an alternative route for motorists who want to avoid the congested city center. The ongoing road project begins and ends along the San Jose City Section of Daang Maharlika Road and its alignment will pass through the barangays of Caanawan, Abar 2nd, Sto. Niño 1st and 2nd, Malasin, Manicla and Kita-kita. It will also pass through the San Jose-Lupao Road which will serve as an access road going to Umingan, Pangasinan.

Once completed, travel time traversing the San Jose City proper will be reduced to 8 minutes from the previous 36 minutes. According to District Engineer Armando Z. Manabat, the 7.9-kilometer San Jose City Bypass Road Project received an initial budget of P100 Million under the 2019 General Appropriations Act for the acquisition of road rightof-way (ROW) and opening of a 6-lane road way while its concreting was implemented in 2021. “As of February 22, 2022, the office had already concreted the 429-meter section of the said bypass road starting from Daang Maharlika. The project’s scope of works covers the construction of a six-lane standard carriageway

with a dedicated bike lane, construction of slope protection and drainage system, and installation of solar LED lights, LED solar-powered road studs, bolt-on amber guardrail butterfly reflectors, which will ensure safe travel of motorists when the project is opened to the public,” Manabat said. Manabat added that for the year 2022, their office will continue to undertake the ROW acquisition for the remaining 4.808-kilometer segment of the bypass road, as well as the preparations for the concreting of its 2.885-kilometer section and the construction of 3 bridges with total length of 30 linear meters from San JoseLupao Road to Maharlika Highway. ###

AURORA DEO

P7.68-million evacuation center cum multipurpose covered court, Maria Aurora, Aurora

The multipurpose evacuation center is situated on a 1,200 square meter property and can accommodate up to 600 people. It has a kitchen, reception area, two (2) shower stalls with 12-seater toilet facilities, and two rooms that will serve as a clinic and secretary’s office.

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

BATAAN 2ND DEO

22-bed Modular hospital within the Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital (MMWGH), Bataan

Equipped with ventilation systems, oxygen lines and air conditioning units, the modular hospital also has a booth for nurses along the hallway, a separate nursing station, pantry for medical personnel, nurse call system, public address system, fire alarm system and provision of generator set with platform.

NUEVA ECIJA 1ST DEO

38 Department of Public Works and Highways

DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Isolation Facilities in San Jose City, Nueva Ecija Each room is equipped with an individual air-conditioning unit, mechanical bed and table, as well as toilet and bath amenities. Apart from the isolation rooms, there are also four quarters available for male and female healthcare workers, nursing stations, an electrical/stockrooms, and a pump/generator rooms to sustain the needs of the users of the said facility.

Construction of Road, including Bridge, San Agustin, Sto Domingo to Pag-Asa, Talavera, Nueva Ecija The construction of the 2.20-kilometer road and the 90.80-meter bridge that traverses Barangay Dolores, Sto. Domingo and Barangay San Carlos, Aliaga received a budget of P233.5 million; while a total of P234.4-million was released by the national government for the construction of a 2.40-kilometer road, including the 153.50-meter bridge that now connects Barangay San Agustin in Sto. Domingo and Barangay Pag-asa, Talavera. Regional Office III - Central Luzon

DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

40 Department of Public Works and Highways

DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

NUEVA ECIJA 2ND DEO

Two (2) asphalt overlay and two (2) road reblocking projects in the different sections of Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA) which is known as a high-volume road, and the two (2) road concreting projects in Brgy. Calaba in San Isidro and Brgy. Entablado in Cabiao.

F. Padolina Street Farm-to-Market Road in Barangay Pias, General Tinio Residents of F. Padolina Street in Barangay Pias, General Tinio expressed their appreciation to the Department of Public Works and Highways - Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineering Office for the completion of the 3.096-lane kilometer farm-to-market road.

Regional Office III - Central Luzon

DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Barangay Sta. Arcadia Farm-to-Market Road, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija This 3.1328 lane km. farm-to-market road in Barangay Sta. Arcadia, Cabanatuan City implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways - Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineering Office now provides farmer-residents and motorists with more convenient travel.

42 Department of Public Works and Highways

DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

PAMPANGA 1ST DEO

Rehabilitation/Improvement of Multi-Purpose Building, Brgy. Sto Niño, City of San Fernando, Pampanga

Bridge Program - Replacement of Permanent Weak Bridges - Lagundi Br. (B01477LZ) along Jose Abad Santos Avenue (JASA)

Construction (Completion) of Multi-Purpose Building (Legislative Building), San Juan, Sta. Ana, Pampanga

Construction of Multi-Purpose Building (Dialysis Center including Site Development), Apalit, Pampanga

PAMPANGA 2ND DEO

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DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

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DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

PAMPANGA 3RD DEO

Angeles-Magalang Bypass Road With the completion of this bypass road, motorists can now enter or exit through Aniceto-Gueco, saving them at least 30 minutes of travel time.

Anunas-Cuayan Bridge in Angeles City The P43 million, 30-meter-long four-lane bridge connects to a 1.98-kilometer bypass road completed in 2020 and now serves as an alternative route for motorists traveling from Barangay Anunas and Barangay Cuayan, as well as those heading to Friendship Highway and Clark as they can save at least 15 minutes of travel time.

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DEOs PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

TARLAC 1ST DEO

Completion of a four (4)-storey, sixteen (16)-classroom in Anao NHS in Tarlac Students of Anao National High School in Tarlac will now have a safer and spacious learning facility with the completion of a four (4)-storey, sixteen (16)-classroom school building implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways-Tarlac 1st District Engineering Office.

Improvement of the 1.4-kilometer section of the San Jose-Palauig Road, Construction of a 105-lineal meter bridge, and Installation of protection netting measuring 1,420 square meters The completed structures worth P151.42-million are part of the 36.925-kilometer access road project that connects San Jose in Tarlac and Palauig in Zambales.

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Spiritual and

Moral

EMPOWERMENT

n a largely Christian nation like ours, March and April are the months when special attention is paid to the events surrounding the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Also, thousands of modern pilgrims delight in walking where Jesus walked in what we now call the “Holy Land”. The main reason is that “who we think Jesus is” determines how we live the remaining days of our lives, and ultimately spells our destiny. The question Jesus asked His disciples are the same question asked of us.

Matthew 16:13 ...”Who do people say the Son of Man is?” Jesus wants us to know Him as the Christ, the Son of the living God.

Matthew 16:16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Our beliefs do not hang on thin air but on the historicity of Jesus. His death was not a sign of defeat but of victory over sin and death. He resurrected from the dead that’s why the tomb was found empty. Our faith depends not on religion but on Jesus, the Christ. What made Jesus special aside from that ultimate “feat” of

resurrecting from the dead? He is the only “Great Teacher” who: -claimed to bring God to us, -dealt radically with human wickedness, -broke the final barrier—death, -offers to live within His followers. While the remains of what people regard as their “god” “religious leader,” or “founder” could be found and were even enshrined in different places in the world, Jesus’ body could not be found even up to this time. Why? Because He has risen, indeed! Despite the objections of skeptics regarding the resurrection of Jesus, historical records: evidences including written documents from the first century including 39 ancient sources in addition to the New Testament and early church leaders attest to the historicity of Jesus. He who was in the beginning God, and with God, did live with us, humans, in this created world.

John 1:1-2 • In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (v2) He was with God in the beginning. John 1:14 Now the Word became flesh and took up residence among us.

We saw his glory – the glory of the one and only, full of grace and truth, who came from the Father. In the mid1800s a Christian preacher, John Duncan devised a “trilemma”. Duncan’s argument is laid out: “Christ either deceived mankind by conscious fraud, or He was Himself deluded and self-deceived, or He was Divine”. JOHN DUNCAN

Similarly, C. S. Lewis popularized an argument that Jesus was either a liar or a lunatic or the Lord. He wrote: C.S. LEWIS

... You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God: or else a madman or something worse…. You can shut Him up for a fool, you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon; or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God. But let us not come up with any patronising nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.

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SPIRITUAL AND MORAL EMPOWERMENT

(Spiritual and Moral... Continued from page 47)

perfume as an act of humility. This tender expression indicated Mary’s devotion to Jesus and her willingness to serve him.

The Scripture tells us that Jesus exists even before the creation of the world and that He is the creator of all things and the source of life which was the light of mankind but that humanity did not comprehend.

John 1:3-5 (v3) All things were created by him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created. (v4) In him was life, and the life was the light of mankind. (v5) And the light shines on in the darkness, but the darkness has not mastered it.

This HOLY WEEK, we will revisit and meditate upon the significant events about the Jesus of Biblical Christianity in the hope of igniting our love for God and responding to God’s love appropriately.

John 3:16 For this is the way God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. The last Passover week, also called the Passion week, with Jesus, is the turning point in the history of redemption. Let’s have a run-through of the events during this crucial week and meditate on them.

[Before Palm Sunday] Sabbath–day of rest — SATURDAY Not mentioned in the Gospels. Since the next day was the Sabbath, the Lord probably spent the day in traditional fashion with his friends

The Triumphal Entry — SUNDAY

[Matt. 21:1–11; Mark 11:1–11; Luke 19:28–44; John 12:12–19]

On the first day of the week Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling an ancient prophecy (Zech. 9:9). The crowd welcomed him with “Hosanna” and the words of Ps. 118:25–26, thus ascribing to him a messianic title as the agent of the Lord, the coming King of Israel.

Clearing of the temple — MONDAY [Matt. 21:10–17; Mark 11:15–18; Luke 19:45–48]

The next day he returned to the temple and found the court of the Gentiles full of traders and money changers making large profits as they gave out Jewish coins in exchange for “pagan” money. Jesus drove them out and overturned their tables.

Day of controversy and parables — TUESDAY

Day of rest — WEDNESDAY

Not mentioned in the Gospels The Scriptures do not mention this day, but the counting of the days (Mark 14:1; John 12:1) seems to indicate that there was another day of which the Gospels record nothing.

[Passover] Last Supper — THURSDAY

[Matt. 26:17–30; Mark 14:12– 26; Luke 22:7–23; John 13:1– 30]

In an upper room Jesus prepared both himself and his disciples for his death. He gave the Passover meal a new meaning. The loaf of bread and cup of wine represented his body soon to be sacrificed and his blood soon to be shed. And so he instituted the “Lord’s Supper”. After singing a hymn they went to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed in agony, knowing what lay ahead of him.

Crucifixion — FRIDAY

[Matt. 27:1–66; Mark 15:1–47; Luke 22:66–23:56; John 18:28–19:37]

Following betrayal, arrest, desertion, false trials, denial, condemnation, beatings, and mockery, Jesus was required to carry his cross to “The Place of the Skull,” where he was crucified with two other prisoners.

[Matt. 21:23–24:51; Mark 11:27–13:37; Luke 20:1–21:36]

IN JERUSALEM Jesus evaded the traps set by the priests.

[Before Palm Sunday] Arrival in Bethany — FRIDAY

ON THE MOUNT OF OLIVES OVERLOOKING JERUSALEM (Tuesday afternoon, exact location unknown)

John 12:1 Jesus arrived in Bethany six days before the Passover to spend some time with his friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. While here, Mary anointed his feet with costly

He taught in parables and warned the people against the Pharisees. He predicted the destruction of Herod’s great temple and told his disciples about future events, including his own return.

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AT THE CROSS • The soldiers divided up his clothes and cast lots to see what each would get. (Mk 15:24) Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Lk 23:34) It was the third hour when they crucified him. (Mk 15:25)

SPIRITUAL AND MORAL EMPOWERMENT • Those who passed by hurled insults at him … saying … “Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!” (Mt 27:39–40) • The chief priests mockingly said, “He saved others … but he can’t save himself!” (Mk 15:31) • The soldiers also came up and mocked him … “If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.” (Lk 23:36–37) • One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at Jesus: “Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself and us!” (Lk 23:39) • But the other criminal rebuked him … Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Lk 23:40, 42) • Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you shall be with me in paradise.” (Lk 23:43) • Jesus … said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” (Jn 19:26-27) • At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. (Mk 15:33) • Jesus cried … “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mt 27:46) • “I am thirsty.” (Jn 19:28) • “It is finished.” (Jn 19:30) • “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” (Lk 23:46) 3 PM — JESUS DIES

EVENTS

IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING

A The earthquake and tearing in two of the curtain (veil) (Mt 27:51)

B Tombs break open (Mt 27:52) C The centurion … exclaimed,

“Surely he was the Son of God.” (Mt 27:54)

D The confession of the multitude (Lk 23:48)

E The thieves’ legs are broken (Jn 19:31–32)

F The soldier pierces Jesus’ side (Jn 19:34)

The burial (Jn 19:38-42) The tomb is secured by a seal and a guard is posted (Mt 27:66)

In the tomb —FRIDAY afternoon, SATURDAY, SUNDAY morning

Jesus’ body was placed in the tomb before 6:00 pm, Friday night, when the Sabbath began and all work stopped, and it lay in the tomb throughout the Sabbath.

8. Resurrection — SUNDAY

Matt. 28:1–13; Mark 16:1–20; Luke 24:1–49; John 20:1–31

• The Gospel (The Power of God)

Romans 1:16-17 (16) For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. (17) For the righteousness of God is revealed in the gospel from faith to faith, just as it is written, “The righteous by faith will live.” ...Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day according to the scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred...(1 Cor.15:3-6) It is at the Cross of Calvary where God’s love and justice met.

God’s KINGDOM:

Early in the morning, women went to the tomb and found that the stone closing the tomb’s entrance had been rolled back. An angel told them Jesus was alive. Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene in the garden, to Peter, to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, and later that day to all the disciples but Thomas. His resurrection was established as a fact.

IMPORTANT TRUTHS TO MEDITATE UPON:

• Fulfillment of Prophecies. Several hundreds of prophecies were fulfilled in Jesus.

- The anointing of Jesus’ feet by Mary on Saturday, March 28 year 33, to staying near the cross of Jesus at Calvary, speak volumes about the faith of women in service of the Messiah. - In Jesus’ Triumphal Entry to Jerusalem on a Sunday, he rode on a donkey instead of a horse fit for a King. This, along with the shouts of the people fulfill the prophecies about the Messiah. - When Jesus looked for the “fruit” of a fig tree, cursed the tree

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SPIRITUAL AND MORAL EMPOWERMENT when he did not find any. He is in effect pronouncing judgment to Israel as a nation who were first offered salvation, because they did not produce the fruit of righteousness. - God demands not the outward appearance of religiosity but the righteousness from within a person. - Jesus told Pilate that His kingdom is not of this world.

John 18:36 Jesus replied, “My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my servants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish authorities. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.”

(Spiritual and Moral... Continued from page 49)

The Choice. A CHOICE HAS TO BE MADE People were made to choose between Judaism (that was corrupted) or JESUS! Because the Jews have already rejected Jesus, salvation was offered to us, Gentiles. As Jesus hung on the cross, two criminals were also crucified as ultimate price for their sins. One to his left and the other to his right. Their hearts reflect the response of the world to Jesus’ authority. One thief hurled mocking remarks at him while the other confessed Jesus as Lord.

Which one are you? A better question is that from the words of Jesus himself, “Who do you say the Son of Man is?”

* But Don’t All Religions Lead to God Navigating the Multi-Faith Maze by Michael Green 2002 by Michael Green, Published by Baker Books a division of Baker Publishing Group **Hugh Claycombe (www.rosepublishing.com) ***.C.S. Christianity

Lewis

Mere

All Scripture quotations are from the NET (New English Translation)

Pastor Nikki Joselito Ritual is the founding pastor of ACTS Church Philippines, a husband to Natalie and a father to Joshua Denise and Eunice.

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