Baguio city: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon announced on Sunday that the Kennon Road rock shed and tunnel, along with the repair of sections damaged by tropical cyclones, are slated for completion within this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dizon made these remarks during an inspection of the infrastructure in Benguet province. He stated that the road works and repairs are set to commence this week, supported by a PHP270 million budget allocated for the remaining 100-meter rock shed segment. Dizon expressed confidence in the project's timely completion, emphasizing the rock shed's effectiveness while acknowledging the setbacks caused by previous typhoons.

Kennon Road, a vital 33.5-kilometer route connecting Rosario, La Union to Baguio City, has been vulnerable to landslides. Dizon stressed the importance of ensuring a solid foundation to support and strengthen the road. He mentioned that the completion of the rock shed would offer much-needed protection to the road and surrounding sections.

In a recent media briefing, Dizon revealed plans to involve Japanese consultants in addressing slope protection for road construction in Benguet and the Cordillera region. This collaboration aims to tackle soil erosion and landslides, prevalent issues in the region and across the country, where roads are built on mountain slopes.