The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board, chaired by President Marcos has approved key changes to the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network (LLRN) Project and other modifications to major infrastructure projects.

In its 19th meeting in Malacañan on Monday, July 15, the NEDA Board approved changes to the Phase 1 scope of the LLRN Project, which now includes developing connecting roads and interchanges in various locations.

"We have a motion to approve the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network Project Phase 1... confirmed and approved the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network Project Phase 1 changes in scope, extension of implementation period and revised financing strategy,” President Marcos said.

These locations encompass Barangay Tunasan in Muntinlupa City and San Pedro, Biñan, and Cabuyao in Laguna.

Approved in 2021, the project entails the construction of a 37.5-kilometer primary road and a 12-kilometer viaduct from Lower Bicutan, Taguig, to Tunasan, Muntinlupa, along with a 25.5-kilometer shoreline viaduct and embankment from Tunasan, Muntinlupa, to Calamba, Laguna.

The project is expected to stimulate economic activity in the National Capital Region (NCR), Calabarzon, and Central Luzon upon its completion in 2027.

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, who serves as the NEDA Board Vice Chairperson, said the Board recognizes the project's potential to reduce transportation constraints on existing road networks, promote economic development in the region, and provide safer, more convenient, and faster travel for road users in Laguna and nearby provinces.

Meanwhile, the second phase of the LLRN Project, which will traverse the eastern portion of Laguna Lake from Binangonan, Rizal, to Calamba, Laguna, is under feasibility study and is slated for completion by December 2024.

The project will have an approximate mainline total length of 71.5 kilometers.

Other infrastructure projects

The Board likewise approved the additional $30-million loan to support the Project Development and Monitoring Facility (PDMF), which will provide a project preparation facility for implementing agencies to undertake pre-investment activities, such as developing feasibility studies for potential PPP projects and engaging high-quality transaction advisors.

The facility will also extend support throughout the preparation, development, approval, procurement, coordination, and monitoring of various PPP projects.

As the government expands private sector participation in infrastructure projects, Balisacan said the additional support for the PDMF will ensure that PPP undertakings are meticulously planned and executed to the highest standards.

He added that it will guarantee continued access to international sources of innovation, expertise, advice, and best practices in developing and implementing PPP projects.