The aggressive implementation of infrastructure projects especially through the Build Build Build project has resulted in the employment of more than 1.6 million Filipinos, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said on Thursday, Jan. 27.
DPWH Secretary Roger G. Mercado said that from the month of January up to December of last year, the DPWH has done construction, rehabilitation, and improvement of 4,097 kilometers of roads, as well as 510 bridges, and 1,593 flood control structures that improved travel time, ensured the safety of motorists, and protected lives and properties.
The department has also facilitated the completion of 4,244 classrooms, and 82 school workshop buildings, with other school facilities, as well as 108 evacuation centers nationwide.
“With the threat of the pandemic still looming, DPWH still managed to attain numerous achievements in our mission to provide quality infrastructure to the Filipino people,” said Mercado.
Since the start of President Duterte’s administration back in June of 2016, the country has seen the construction, rehabilitation, and improvement of 34,291 kilometers of roads; 6,656 bridges; and 13,224 flood control structures.
In the country’s fight against COVID-19, the department has also made a big contribution.
By the end of 2021, the DPWH built 736 quarantine facilities with 28,195 beds for the treatment of infected individuals, 29 modular hospitals with 595 beds and 55 off-site dormitories for health workers with 1,444 beds.
DPWH senior Undersecretary Rafael C. Yabut, in-charge of DPWH Regional Operations, said that DPWH looks forward to conquering Fiscal Year 2022 filled with challenges, opportunities and victories.
“With the humble desire to be of service and to lend a helping hand even in trying times, DPWH men and women have proven in the aftermath of a disaster like the Typhoon “Odette” on December 2021 and Taal Volcano eruption on January 2020 the willingness to face any risk in the name of fulfilling duties and serving the public,” said Yabut.