BALER, Aurora (PIA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) inaugurated the Canili Bridge III in the province of Aurora.

This is a vital component of the P594.54-million Pantabangan-Canili Bypass Road Project which has been opened to traffic.

DPWH Regional Director Roseller Tolentino said the bypass road project, initiated in 2013, will now provide motorists a seamless and safe access to Aurora rerouting traffic from the existing Canili-Alfonso Castañeda Road and eliminating the need to navigate the one-way access road over the Canili-Diayo Dam.

“The initiative for the Pantabangan-Canili Bypass Road dates back to 2012, when then-Senator Edgardo Angara pushed for its construction to alleviate concerns regarding potential damage on the Canili-Diayo Dam's earth dike caused by overloaded trucks,” Tolentino recalled.

Despite facing challenges such as adverse weather and difficult site conditions, the DPWH Regional Office III persisted in its efforts by securing additional funding in 2022 to complete Canili Bridges I, II, and III, as well as to widen a 3.29-kilometer segment of the bypass road.
 

Meanwhile, Aurora Lone District Representative Rommel Rico Angara emphasized the significant socio-economic benefits of completing the bypass road.

He noted the infrastructure’s role in enhancing inter-provincial connectivity, stimulating economic growth through improved transportation of goods and services, and fostering tourism and local business expansion, ultimately contributing to the province’s development.

DPWH Regional Construction Division Chief Jayson Jauco, on the other hand, disclosed that the recently completed 3.78-kilometer bypass road comprises roadway and bridges.

It promotes economic growth by boosting local businesses and tourism activities in the area. (MJSC/CLJD-PIA 3)