DPWH, JICA conclude discussions for Dalton Pass project in Northern Luzon
Officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Japanese experts have concluded their week-long discussions for the proposed P37 billion Dalton Pass East Alignment Road Project in northern Luzon.
The proposed project is a four-lane 23.5-kilometer road that would ease the heavy traffic and would  provide an alternative route connecting Tayabo, San Jose, Nueva Ecija to Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya and vice versa.
The Dalton Pass East East Alignment Road is listed among the upgraded NEDA Infrastructure Flagship Projects in light of the Marcos administration's "Build Better More" policy.
The proposed project, which falls under the DPWH High Standard Highway Master Plan's classification as a High Standard Highway Road, will include a twin-tube long-distance tunnel and ten bridges. It is also being considered for application under the Special Terms for Economic Partnership (STEP) Loan to ensure construction efficiency and safety as well as adequate and proper operation and maintenance once it is complete.Â
Japan will specifically use its technologies and experiences in the fields of mountain tunnel excavation and building techniques, facilities inside the tunnel such as communication and ventilation systems, and operation and maintenance.
The Dalton Pass East Alignment Road Projec  is an offshoot of the meeting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and JapanesePrime Minister Kishida Fumio that also includes the Central Mindanao High-Standard Highway and Second San Juanico Bridge.
The feasibility studies for the two other projects were already completed. (Nicole Magmanlac)Â
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