CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) – Construction is in full-swing for the bridge that will connect the mainland municipality of Lopez, Quezon to Alabat Island, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Calabarzon recently said.
The project, dubbed as the Maharlika Secondary Road (MSR) Junction Canda-Hondagua Roma Point Bridge, is the first locally-funded bridge by the DPWH IV-A in the region which aims to provide seamless access for residents and businesses, reducing travel time and promoting trade, tourism, and economic opportunities in the coastal and island communities.
During the Philippine Information Agency’s Sulong Calabarzon program, DPWH Region IV-A director Jovel Mendoza emphasized that the landmark infrastructure project will significantly reduce dependence on ferries and boats, currently the only means of transport between Lopez and Alabat Island, which can be hindered by weather conditions.
“The Canda-Hondagua Roma Point road is a locally funded project that will connect the town of Lopez and the town of Alabat. This is a huge thing for residents because Alabat is a big island, when we connect it, those who used to have to use water craft will be able to to go the Alabat island from Lopez using the bridge,” he explained.
The DPWH Calabarzon has allocated Php7 billion for the 11.4 kilometer project, a milestone in the government’s push for inclusive growth in the regions through infrastructure development.
“This is the first time that we will be constructing a bridge with this magnitude that is locally funded and implemented by the regional office,” the director said.
The bridge is seen vital in boosting the agricultural and fisheries industries, which are the backbone of the economy on Alabat Island.
With more efficient access to the mainland, local producers will be able to transport their goods to larger markets more quickly and cost-effectively, thereby increasing their income and competitiveness.
Once completed, the bridge will be the longest over-the-water link in Calabarzon. (AM, CH/PIA-4A)
Sulong Calabarzon is a weekly public affairs program hosted by the Philippine Information Agency Calabarzon, streaming live every Thursday, 2 p.m. via the Philippine Information Agency Calabarzon Facebook page.
