The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has turned over to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) the latest masterplan for the development of a High Standard Highway (HSH) in the Philippines.
Ryuichi Ueno, JICA study team leader, presented the findings on the master plan HSH Network Development Phase 2 aimed at expanding and updating the 2010 HSH master plan conducted within the 200-kilometer radius of Metro Manila, Metro Cebu and Metro Davao.
JICA’s master plan proposed the construction of a 9,000-km. highway composed of 4,400 km. HSH class 1 and 4,600 km. HSH class 2, a regional HSH.
Class 1 is composed of an existing 406 km., 265 km. under construction and 3,279 km. new highways to be implemented along major transport corridors across the archipelago.
Class 2 will branch off from the HSH class 1 to provide connection to sub-regional centers as well as important ports and airports not covered by class 1.
These projects were categorized into long-, medium- and short-term projects based on their implementation importance.
The crafting of the masterplan is in support of the country’s effort to invest in high-quality infrastructure for improved national connectivity and accessibility.
“We are grateful for JICA’s technical capacity and expertise in world class infrastructure for it is crucial not just in decongesting highly urbanized areas but also in achieving the 2040 National Development Plan of making the Philippines a prosperous country by investing in high quality infrastructure,” Roger Mercado, DPWH acting secretary, said in his opening speech delivered by Rafael Yabut, senior undersecretary, during the turnover ceremony at the DPWH office Monday. Aside from the master plan, JICA’s development assistance also covers the pre-feasibility study of four important roads and bridge: Agusan Del Norte-Butuan City logistical highway in Region 13; Cebu Circumferential Road in Region 7; Central Mindanao Highway, Cagayan de Oro-Malaybalay section in Region 10; and second San Juanico Bridge in Region 8.
With the completion of the master plan and feasibility studies, the Philippines is one step closer to building faster, safer, resilient and environment-friendly road transport network which support national goals of rapid, inclusive and sustained economic growth, DPWH said.
However, DPWH has not provided the cost and timeline for the implementation of the project.
