TACLOBAN CITY - The construction of two multi-million infrastructure projects, the P163-million Maslog and Jipapad Road (Phase 1) and the P30-million Panic-an Bridge in Maslog in Eastern Samar, is seen to boost the campaign against insurgency in the province.
The 2.4-kilometer Maslog and Jipapad Road (Phase 1) and the 22-meter Panic-an Bridge will connect barangays and municipalities, especially in vulnerable areas, to foster socio-economic development, especially
in conflict-affected areas.
The farm-to-market roads were funded under the Fiscal Year 2024 Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program, which focuses on the transformation of former rebels (FRs), their families, and communities.
Brig. Gen. Lenart Lelina, commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade, stressed the importance of farm-to-market roads, citing the adage, “Insurgency ends where road begins.”
“These two municipalities were formerly considered hotbeds of the insurgents in the province of Eastern Samar. But now, with these infrastructure projects, economic development will soon start to flourish,” he said.
Major Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division and the Joint Task Force Storm, thanked the government’s continued support in putting initiatives that are critical in defeating the New People's Army.
“Through these projects, the root causes of insurgency will be addressed. The delivery of basic government services and the socio-economic development will improve through these access roads,” Orio said.