President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday underscored the need for a high-standard rehabilitation of the Maharlika Highway, highlighting its role in advancing regional growth through improved connectivity and mobility.
Presidential inspection in Samar
During his inspection of the ongoing roadworks in Pinabacdao, Samar, Marcos stressed that maintaining high construction standards is crucial to maximizing the long-term benefits of the infrastructure project for communities and the economy. The President was accompanied by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon during the site visit, where they assessed the progress of the repairs.
According to a statement from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Marcos assured the high quality of the project to improve interconnectivity, speed up the movement of people and goods, and boost economic opportunities in the region.
Project benefits and timeline
The massive rehabilitation project is expected to make travel faster, safer, and more convenient. Travel time between Tacloban City and Catbalogan City will be reduced from three hours to just one hour and 45 minutes. The PCO noted that the project is slated for completion in August this year.
Beyond travel efficiency, the rehabilitation will lower transportation costs, improve logistics for farmers and entrepreneurs, and provide better access to essential services such as education and healthcare. It will also support faster and more reliable deployment of relief and recovery operations during disasters, strengthening regional resilience.
Scope of the rehabilitation
The Maharlika Highway, the country's longest road network, is undergoing a massive upgrade to improve road conditions, strengthen regional connectivity, and support economic growth in Samar and nearby provinces. The rehabilitation is estimated to cost around PHP16 billion and will cover damaged road and bridge sections across the north-south transport corridor.
The project is part of the government's broader infrastructure development plan, aimed at boosting economic activity in Eastern Visayas and fostering long-term regional development.
