Diffun: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is fast-tracking the rehabilitation of the NRJ Liwayway-Ifugao Village Road in Diffun, Quirino province.
According to Philippines News Agency, DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, citing a report from DPWH Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) Director Mathias Malenab, stated that the project aims to provide safer and more reliable access for Indigenous Peoples (IP) in the municipality, aligning with the Bagong Pilipinas vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a stronger and more inclusive nation.
Bonoan highlighted that the road rehabilitation project, currently 43.60 percent complete, is expected to be finished by December 2025. The project, valued at PHP96.4 million, includes the reblocking of 53 distinct road sections covering approximately 3.87 kilometers, widening the roadway from its current 4-5 meters to the standard 6.1 meters, installing thermoplastic pavement markings for improved lane visibility, constructing lined drainage canals, placing safety guardrails, and providing street lighting.
Bonoan noted that the road rehabilitation addresses the pressing need for improved road conditions following a series of accidents reported in 2022 due to pavement deterioration along the provincial road section. Once completed, the improved road will significantly reduce accident risks while strengthening connectivity for 13 barangays on the western side of Diffun, including Dumanisi, Gregorio, Pimentel, Ricarte Norte, San Pascual, Magsaysay, Campamento, Rafael Palma, Macate, Baguio Village, Ifugao Village, Don Mariano Perez Sr., and Aklan Village.
“The upgraded road will facilitate faster and more efficient access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and emergency services, contributing to both economic growth and social development for the area’s indigenous and emerging communities,” the DPWH head added. Implemented by the Quirino District Engineering Office, the ongoing road rehabilitation project was funded under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
