Unity Road project, a priority – Dizon

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon has vowed to allocate significant funding for the proposed PHP11.9 billion Unity Roads project over the next two years to improve connectivity within the tri-boundaries of Samar Island.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Dizon said the project will be considered a priority as it was endorsed by the Regional Development Council (RDC), Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC), and the three Samar governors.

“The remaining funding requirement is about PHP10 billion. This is a huge amount, but we will maximize the available allocation between 2027 and 2028 as we work with the DPWH regional office, the three provinces, and the RDC,” Dizon said after a meeting with Samar governors and Leyte Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla, the RDC chair.

He noted that lobbying for the Unity Roads is coming directly from local leaders who have long sought support for these infrastructure projects.

“In fact, they are the ones requesting support. This has long been the dream of our governors, but unfortunately, it was never funded or implemented. The President’s commitment to them and to all in Region 8 is that we will finally implement all these projects,” he added.

In recent years, the proposal endorsed by the RDC and RPOC received only PHP500 million annually from 2024 to 2026.

The project covers 181.17 kilometers of road, including key routes such as Matuguinao–Silvino Lobos, Matuguinao–Las Navas, Calbayog–Bobon, San Jose de Buan–Maslog, San Jose de Buan–Las Navas, and Calbiga–Borongan.

Once implemented, the Unity Roads are expected to enhance access between Samar, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar, boost economic activity, and promote peace and stability in conflict-affected areas.

Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan said Wednesday the meeting marked the first time Samar officials were able to discuss the project directly with the DPWH chief.

“We understand that it cannot all be funded at once, so whatever is available for 2027 and the years onwards is what we expect. We already have the pre-feasibility study and the complete physical survey for the project, including the bridges,” Tan said in an interview.

The Unity Roads aim to rebuild former rebel villages, stabilize conflict-affected economies, and prevent exploitation.