The golden era of infrastructure development is in full swing despite the limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Roger G. Mercado said that the agency has exerted all efforts in Fiscal Year 2021, pushing the implementation of priority infrastructure projects to facilitate the rebound of the economy by providing 1.6 Million jobs.
“With the threat of the pandemic still looming, DPWH still managed to attain numerous achievements in our mission to provide quality infrastructure to the Filipino people”, added Secretary Mercado.
DPWH has completed from January to December 2021, the construction, rehabilitation, and improvement of 4,097 kilometers of roads; 510 bridges; and 1,593 flood control structures that improved travel time, ensured the safety of motorists, and protected lives and properties.
DPWH has also facilitated the completion of 4,244 classrooms and 82 school workshop buildings, and other school facilities. It also completed 108 evacuation centers throughout the country.
According to Secretary Mercado, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte emerged, quite expectedly, as the country’s “Infrastructure President” having completed from June 2016 to December 2021 the construction, rehabilitation, and improvement of 34,291 kilometers of roads; 6,656 bridges; and 13,224 flood control structures.
DPWH is also a major key player in the government’s fight against the coronavirus.
As of end of December 2021, DPWH has built 736 quarantine facilities with 28,195 beds for the treatment of infected individuals, 29 modular hospitals with 595 beds and 55 off-site dormitories for health workers with 1,444 beds.
Senior Undersecretary Rafael C. Yabut, in-charge of DPWH Regional Operations, said that DPWH looks forward to conquering Fiscal Year 2022 filled with challenges, opportunities and victories.
With the humble desire to be of service and to lend a helping hand even in trying times, DPWH men and women have proven in the aftermath of a disaster like the Typhoon “Odette” on December 2021 and Taal Volcano eruption on January 2020 the willingness to face any risk in the name of fulfilling duties and serving the public, added Senior Undersecretary Yabut.
DPWH was at the forefront not only on disaster clearing but also of the rescue/evacuation and relief activities, braving strong winds and rains, to areas where people needed help the most.
