By Michelle Ducut
The Department of Public Works and Highways in Bicol (DPWH-5) is taking immediate steps to address heavy traffic in Barangay Cabutagan, Lupi town, Camarines Sur, caused by ongoing road reblocking activities.
DPWH-5 Regional Director Virgilio Eduarte announced on Wednesday that steel sheet pile driving and backfilling operations are underway to allow two-lane traffic flow in the affected area. Additionally, all ongoing construction activities along the Lupi road stretch have been temporarily halted to prioritize traffic decongestion.
Eduarte assured the public that resolving the issue is a top priority and emphasized the agency’s efforts to ensure public safety.
“To address the issue and ensure the safety of motorists and the public, we are implementing immediate remedial actions. Our team is working round the clock to execute these measures efficiently and effectively,” Eduarte said.
The DPWH has also deployed sheet piles to reinforce the weakened road sections and plans to repair blockages and box culverts in the area. Eduarte has requested additional funding through the Quick Response Fund to expedite the repairs next year, contingent on favorable weather conditions.
Local traffic enforcement teams have been mobilized to regulate the flow of vehicles, and motorists are advised to follow traffic advisories for their safety. The DPWH-5 expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and cooperation during this period.
Camarines Sur 2nd District Representative Luis Raymund Villafuerte, in a Facebook post, revealed that he had discussed the urgency of the situation with DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan and sought assistance from other government officials, including Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cesar Chavez.
Villafuerte also conveyed the situation’s importance to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., highlighting the road’s critical role as a route for vehicles traveling between Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao.