The city government of Davao reiterated to the regional office of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH 11) to prioritize the repair of damaged roads in Davao City and the construction of new road networks instead of destroying roads that are still in good condition.
“Following the presentation of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to the Davao City Council justifying unfinished road projects in the city, the city government of Davao reiterates its stand that DPWH must prioritize the repair of damaged roads and the construction of new road networks instead of destroying roads that are clearly in good condition,” the city government of Davao said in a statement.
In April this year, officials of DPWH 11 appeared before the City Council following Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte’s call in March this year on the said agency and aligned agencies as well as private contractors to coordinate with the City Transport and Traffic Management Board (CTTMB) in conducting road projects in Davao City after noticing that passable roads in the city that were still in good condition were being excavated.
During their appearance during the session, DPWH 11 spokesperson Dean Ortiz vowed to revisit options on how it can further improve its coordination and not affect traffic in the city while implementing road projects.
Also in the statement, the city underscored that the DPWH must take cognizance of the fact that there are many damaged roads in the city, which are under their jurisdiction, that have not been repaired yet.
“This must be DPWH’s priority. We will not tolerate this bad practice in the city as it does not promote the interest of the people of Davao. This only causes traffic congestion and compromises the safety of the public every day,” it said.
It also insisted that DPWH must act swiftly, fix and restore in better condition all roads they have already damaged before trying to destroy new roads within Davao City.
