Core Local Access Road Project: An Instrument of Inclusivity

 Implementation of DILG Projects

Core Local Access Road Project: An Instrument of Inclusivity

 

In a town where there is hard work and unity, all roads lead to the growth and development of the municipality; and for a town aiming for total quality development, connectivity is a necessary aspect for progress. The construction of Core Local Access Roads (CLARs) is all about providing a faster way for each Bayambangueño to connect with each other for them to work together more easily. These constructions not only provide more comfortable ways for residents and passers-by, they have also given many Bayambangueños a living because they are given priority in the hiring of construction workers and laborers.

As a local counterpart to the national government’s “Build, Build, Build!” program, the Local Government Unit of Bayambang shows the taxpayers that their money is being spent on necessary programs that are vital to the town’s development. The estimated cost for the construction of CLARs was P17,363,891.00 but the contract price that was agreed on was P13,382,193.40. The roadlines that have been constructed are Alinggan-Langiran, Langiran-Macayocayo, Macayocayo-Tanolong, and Tanolong-Tococ West. These barangays are part of the remote communities in Bayambang that produce and harvest crops and fishes that are being sold at the public market and in other parts of the region.

Direct beneficiaries of the constructed roads are the residents of the aforementioned barangays. However, the CLAR project will also benefit the entirety of the municipality of Bayambang as it contributes to the economic development through the faster and more efficient transportation of local products. Before, vehicles used to have difficulty negotiating the unpaved roads in the areas, but soon after the completion of the projects, cars, motorcycles, and tricycles can access the roads at ease without the danger of foreign objects causing damage to the vehicles. Passengers also don’t have to worry about dust and mud because the roads are now concrete.

One the typical feedback from the residents is revelatory. “Matagal na akong nakatira sa barangay namin. Ngayon lang nagkaroon ng ganito.” The sense of relief from a seemingly unending suffering is evident in such Facebook post comments as: “Sa wakas, nasemento rin ang daan naman pagkatapos ng napakahabang panahon! Maraming salamat po!”

These constructions are just part of the realization of a bigger dream for the municipality of Bayambang. By addressing the needs of the community, LGU Bayambang gives hope to Bayambangueños that although they live in the farthest of areas of the municipality, the projects and programs will always reach them. The CLAR project has been an effective instrument of fostering inclusivity in the municipality.

(by Patricia M. Espino and Resty S. Odon/photos courtesy of Jed Bautista/Engineering Office)