P77.2M road rehabilitation connecting Bangued and Tayum, Abra underway

Bangued, Abra—Abrenians will soon have better, safer, and faster access between the towns of Bangued and Tayum as the Department of Public Works and Highways begins the rehabilitation and improvement of a key national road connecting said municipalities.

The ongoing P77.2 million infrastructure project, according to the Philippine Information Agency, covers a 6.69-kilometer section of the Abra-Kalinga Road, passing through Barangays Zone V, Zone VII, Patucannay, Macray, Poblacion, Deet, and Gaddani in both Bangued and Tayum.

The road rehabilitation project is part of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda, which highlights infrastructure as a foundation for inclusive development, improved mobility, and better quality of life for Filipino communities.

Started in February this year, the civil works involve removing damaged pavement, compacting the subgrade, and applying a full asphalt overlay across the entire stretch to restore road durability.

Further, drainage improvements will be done to reduce flooding, as well as the installation of safety signage and markings to enhance traffic safety.

According to a report submitted to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan by  DPWH-Cordillera Regional Director Khadaffy Tanggol, as mentioned by PIA, the rehabilitation was deemed urgent due to the presence of potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces of the road that posed hazards to motorists and contributed to longer travel times.

Implemented by the Abra District Engineering Office under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA), the road upgrade is expected to boost local trade, attract business opportunities, and improve the delivery of essential government services to the people of Abra, especially during emergencies.