The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced plans to expedite road improvements along the Maharlika Highway in preparation for the upcoming Holy Week.

During a conference on Monday, February 16, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said clearing operations will be conducted to remove obstructions along the highway, ensuring smoother travel for motorists during the peak holiday period.

In addition, the department plans to implement temporary solutions on other roads not covered by the ongoing repairs, including resurfacing pothole-ridden sections.

Secretary Dizon added that after the Holy Week, the DPWH will roll out a long-term development plan for the Maharlika Highway to address remaining infrastructure issues.

Meanwhile, Dizon emphasized the need to change the mindset of DPWH personnel and focus on completing pending projects that directly improve public convenience.

This follows orders from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to prioritize the completion of nationwide projects.

He added that some DPWH staff underestimate the impact of unfinished projects on ordinary citizens.

“Kulang sa pagmamalasakit. Kala nila it’s just a project but hindi nila alam na kapag inayos yan ng mabilis ay anlaking ginhawa, anlaking kawalan ng perwisyo sa mga kababayan natin,” Dizon explained.

He also highlighted that partially completed projects are practically useless.

“Unless a project is 100% completed.. Sorry, it is useless kasi hindi naman siya nagagamit ng tao eh. Kunyari ‘yung bridge—kung ang bridge ay 90% completed, useless ‘yun. Kasi hindi naman pwedeng rumampa ka na lang tapos tumalon ka sa kabilang side ng tulay eh,” he said.