By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to prioritize the development of climate-resilient roads in light of the country’s changing climate conditions.
“Ang DPWH ay tinagubilinan natin na pagbutihin ang slope protection design ng ating mga kalsada at tulay nang matiyak na ito ay angkop sa pagbabago ng klima,” Marcos stated.
The President’s remarks came after Severe Tropical Storm Kristine caused significant infrastructure damage in Batangas.
“Dahil sa matinding pabago-bagong panahon, ang ating imprastraktura ay dapat masigurong ligtas at angkop sa gitna ng unos at iba pang sakuna. Kaya inaatasan ko ang DPWH na hindi lang ito matatapos sa inaasahang oras, kundi matibay at kalidad din,” he added.
Government records indicate that Severe Tropical Storm Kristine inflicted damage on several infrastructures, including a road in Agoncillo, Batangas, the Bugaan Bridge in Laurel, and slope protection measures along the bridge.
Additionally, the President instructed the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to ensure that all materials used in infrastructure projects meet high-quality standards.
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