The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed Phase 1 of the Malibago-Balagbag Ridge Road Project, a vital road infrastructure that will facilitate enhanced transportation access for residents and local farmers in Barangay Malibago, municipality of Torrijos, Marinduque.
In his report to Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, DPWH Regional Office IV-B Director Gerald A. Pacanan said that the construction of the initial phase of the project stretching 1.94 kilometers is a crucial measure in improving accessibility and connectivity in the area, previously a rough terrain that could only cater either walking or relying on carabaos as a primary mode of transportation in the delivery of local products to the market centers.
“The completion of the Malibago-Balagbag Ridge Road is among the road projects under the "Build Better More" program of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. focused on developing more local road networks, especially in the remote areas, to further support agriculture and economic development across regions,” added Director Pacanan.
The road is poised to significantly reduce travel time from one (1) hour to only 10-15 minutes, pivotal in the faster and smoother movement of goods and services, instrumental to the expansion of more economic opportunities in Torrijos, Marinduque.
Other features of the road project include the construction of a 1.86-kilometer lined canal with concrete shoulder on both sides, including the installation of 30 solar street lights to ensure the safety and resiliency of the road structure against extreme weather conditions.
Implemented by DPWH Marinduque District Engineering Office, the Malibago-Balagbag Ridge Road Phase 1 Project amounting to P96.49 million was completed under the 2023 national budget while Phase 2 costing 96.50 million is underway and is currently 79.38 percent completed.