Apayao to get 11 bridges before P-Noy term ends

By Charlie Lagasca 

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya  – President Aquino said 11 more bridges worth P1.3 billion in the Cordilleras’ northern Apayao province would be completed before his term ends in 2016.

The state-run Philippine Information Agency (PIA) said the President made the assurance during the inauguration of the Ninoy Aquino Bridge in Tuao, Cagayan last week.

The 360-meter bridge, which is part of the more than 22-kilometer road networks linking Cagayan Valley, the Cordilleras and Ilocos regions, was partly funded by the controversial Disbursement Acceleration Program.   

The PIA said the President has ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways to fast track the completion of the bridges and road networks to enhance economic activities in Cagayan’s adjoining Apayao province.

The fund for the Apayao bridge projects is part of the P562.35 billion the administration allocated for the construction and rehabilitation of road networks linking Northern Luzon provinces.

Edilberto Carabbacan, DPWH director for the Cordilleras, said in past years Apayao has been left out in terms of road projects.

Carabbacan said 80 percent of the province’s roads remain unpaved.