The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has presented significant advancements in the Road Network Development Project in Conflict-Affected Areas in Mindanao (RNDP-CAAM) to promote coordination and shared understanding among key stakeholders.
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain, who serves as the chairperson of the RNDP-CAAM Steering Committee, said the project is part of the national government’s initiative to establish better connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and provide better livelihood opportunities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The RNDP-CAAM project targets the enhancement of connectivity and economic growth through the development and improvement of 174.50 kilometers of access roads in conflict-affected regions of Mindanao.
Despite challenges, Sadain stressed the importance of effective coordination with local government units (LGUs) and communities to ensure the project's success.
"This is a golden opportunity for economic development in the Bangsamoro Region. The Build Better More program will help realize our goals for economic progress and transformation,” he said.
Funded through Official Development Assistance (ODA) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), detailed engineering designs are progressing for three sub-projects.
Construction procurement is already underway for the Parang East Diversion Road (SP-8) which is scheduled for completion by 2024.
The DPWH is actively executing infrastructure projects in compliance with the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), including the reconstruction of Marawi Transcentral Roads, alongside ongoing projects such as the Matanog-Barira-Alamada-Libungan Road and the Tapian-Lebak Coastal Road.
Additionally, efforts funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) include Emergency Assistance for the Reconstruction and Recovery of Marawi, with a specific focus on road and bridge rehabilitation.
Support under the ADB-funded Improving Growth Corridor Mindanao Road Sector Project (IGCMRSP) involves bridge construction in Tawi-Tawi and feasibility studies for infrastructure in Sulu Province.