By Matthew Go
Numerous potholes on Maharlika Highway in Pagbilao, Quezon, have caused significant delays for motorists traveling to the Bicol Region, local officials and residents said.
According to reports from Barangay Malicboy, the damaged sections of the highway, including the zigzag area known as Bitukang Manok, have worsened traffic congestion, particularly during the holiday travel season. Additional road damage in the barangay has also been reported, contributing to travel disruptions.
The highway, which falls under the 1st District of Quezon represented by Congressman Mark Enverga, is a major route for vehicles heading to District 4 towns such as Atimonan, Gumaca, and Lopez, as well as provinces in the Bicol region and Samar. Maintenance of the highway is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Quezon Governor Helen Tan has called on the DPWH to expedite repairs to address the impact on traffic flow and daily travel.
The DPWH has not released an official timeline for repairs, leaving motorists to contend with the damaged roads during the peak travel season.