By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos | Philippine News Agency
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has approved the project aiming to improve transport infrastructure in Mindanao.
In its 21st meeting convened by Marcos at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday, the NEDA Board gave its nod to the Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project (MTCIP) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
“It’s one of the main road programs for Mindanao. I think that we should, as much as possible, proceed with the project… we need to approve,” Marcos said, according to a news release by the Presidential Communications Office.
DPWH Sec. Manuel Bonoan said the MTCIP will support the department’s goal to enhance the transport network in Mindanao, benefiting the agricultural sector of the country.
Bonoan added that the MTCIP is part of the master plan for high-standard Highway Network Development Project, which identifies major projects that would be developed from north Luzon, central Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
“This project should provide high-level traffic services by assuring high-speed mobility and safe travel to vital transport socio-economic activities for development of the regions and the country as a whole,” he said.
The MTCIP is a comprehensive initiative to enhance road infrastructure in the Main Corridor, a vital national highway network linking the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and General Santos.
It is expected to generate a wide array of socio-economic benefits for the communities along the Main Corridor and beyond.
The MTCIP aims to improve access to markets, increase trade opportunities, and enhance connectivity for residents and businesses, which will give a big boost to the overall economic growth and development of Mindanao.
The project is seen to improve the transportation network in Mindanao, facilitate the transport of agricultural goods from isolated areas, preserve the long-term value of road assets, and minimize the expenses associated with routine and periodic road maintenance.
It will also interconnect Northern Mindanao, Davao, and Soccsksargen regions.
The project, which will be funded by the World Bank, has at least five components before its completion in 2030.
The DPWH said it would continue the rural roads program beyond 2030, noting these projects have been economically viable with internal economic benefit.