The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said it completed the P73-million improvement of Calapan South Road to provide tourists and motorists a smoother experience when travelling in Roxas, Oriental Mindoro.
DPWH Region IV-B director Gerald Pacanan said the project involved enhancing the 1.5-kilometer, four-lane road by providing an 80-millimeter asphalt overlay, establishing 2-meter shoulders on both sides and adding reflectorized thermoplastic pavement markings as an added safety feature.
He said the improved road network would attract more tourists by providing safer and more convenient travel going to the magnificent San Rafael Cave, the largest in Oriental Mindoro declared as safe by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The Calapan South Road is also vital for transporting goods and essential services, fostering better connectivity between Roxas’ town center and nearby municipalities.
The refurbished road project, which began construction in March 2023, and completed in August 2023, was funded under the 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
“The completion of this road upgrade, through the efforts of the DPWH Southern Mindoro District Engineering Office, signifies the commitment of DPWH in bolstering infrastructure, ensuring safer and more efficient travel, thereby stimulating economic growth in Roxas, Oriental Mindoro,” said DWPH Secretary Manuel Bonoan.