Panabo City's Stalled Drainage Project Finally Gets Completion Date
Panabo City Mayor Jose E. Relampagos has successfully secured a firm commitment from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Davao Region to complete the long-stalled drainage rehabilitation project along Daang Maharlika by December 2025. This breakthrough came during a crucial meeting held on October 21, 2025, at the Panabo Market Complex in Barangay New Pandan.
The mayor directly conveyed the growing frustrations of local business owners who have been suffering from the project's extended delays. The unfinished drainage work has created significant inconvenience for both merchants and customers, with Mayor Relampagos describing the open drainage structure as an "eyesore" along the national highway.
Business Operations Severely Affected
According to details shared by the Panabo City Information Office through their Facebook page, the incomplete project has been particularly disruptive to business operations. Several establishments have been unable to use their parking areas due to the ongoing construction, directly impacting customer accessibility and revenue generation.
During the dialogue, DPWH officials, accompanied by the project contractor, provided concrete assurances that the drainage project would be fully completed by the end of December this year. This commitment was documented in a separate post on the city's official social media platform.
Other Delayed Infrastructure Projects Addressed
Mayor Relampagos utilized the opportunity to remind DPWH representatives about other unfinished infrastructure projects in Panabo City that have experienced prolonged delays. These include:
- The road project in Barangay Kasilak
- The Wharf Road stretching from Crossing Ybañez to Gala-gala Convenience
- The damaged section of the Flood Control Project in Barangay JP Laurel
The mayor emphasized the critical need for close monitoring of all ongoing DPWH projects within Panabo City to ensure timely completion and prevent further disruption to public services and local economic activities.
Economic Impact of Infrastructure Delays
The delayed drainage project exemplifies the broader economic costs associated with poor or damaged infrastructure in the Philippines. A University of the Philippines study conducted in Rizal Province demonstrated that roadway obstructions can result in substantial financial losses, with one recently-widened highway experiencing approximately ₱37.8 million in annual unrealized benefits and crash-related costs during 2017-2018.
From a macroeconomic perspective, the World Bank and Philippine Development Plan identify insufficient infrastructure as a major constraint to economic growth and poverty reduction nationwide. For commercial centers like Panabo City, incomplete projects along major highways create ripple effects that include:
- Delayed deliveries and supply chain disruptions
- Reduced customer access to business establishments
- Increased vehicle maintenance costs
- Significant time losses for commuters and transporters
Local merchants directly affected by the drainage project have reported measurable revenue declines due to decreased foot traffic and inaccessible parking facilities. The visual impact of construction sites also deters potential customers, creating a compounded negative effect on business viability.
Broader Implications for Local Development
Completing the drainage project along Daang Maharlika extends beyond addressing immediate visual and safety concerns. Proper drainage infrastructure serves as a fundamental business enabler by reducing flood risks, protecting adjacent properties, minimizing stock damage, and ensuring uninterrupted commercial activities.
The Panabo City Engineering Office personnel who attended the meeting have committed to enhanced coordination with DPWH to facilitate faster implementation and monitoring of the city's priority infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, DPWH-Davao officials have promised to review and prioritize all projects discussed during the dialogue, ensuring appropriate actions to address delays and maintain project quality standards.
Investing in complete and well-maintained road and drainage infrastructure remains crucial for local economic resilience, particularly in growing commercial areas like Panabo City's market complex and the adjacent highway corridor. The December completion deadline represents a significant step toward restoring the area's full economic potential and improving quality of life for residents and business operators alike.
