Boats will no longer be the only transportation mode to Barangay San Pelayo, in the Municipality of Gandara, Samar as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) constructed a new road opening connected to the nearest barangay for the residents.
Based on a report from DPWH Region 8 Director Nerie Bueno, Public Works Secretary Mark A. Villar said that the new 3.64-kilometer road connecting Barangay San Agustin to Barangay San Pelayo is now benefitting more than 1,700 residents.
“From Daang Maharlika, residents can now just pass through Barangay San Agustin and be safe from the danger of riding a boat especially during the rainy seasons” said Sec. Villar.
Prior to the completion of the road, residents of Barangay San Pelayo either ride small boats that run up and down Gandara River or walk through the narrow pathway along the ricefields.
Aside from the construction of an 8-meter wide gravel road, the project includes an embankment and riprap to prevent the carriageway from eroding as well as base course materials for better riding surface.
The new road, costing P100-million, is also expected to facilitate transport of agricultural products easier and contribute to the local economic activity of Gandara, Samar.