06/08/2025
CBNews | ๐ฆ๐ฃ ๐๐ฒ๐บ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ๐ ๐๐ป๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ค๐๐ฎ๐น๐ถ๐๐ ๐ง๐ฒ๐๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ฃ๐ช๐ ๐ฅ๐ผ๐ฎ๐ฑ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ท๐ฒ๐ฐ๐๐ ๐๐บ๐ถ๐ฑ ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ป๐
In a bold and uncompromising move, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Catanduanes passed a resolution during its 3rd Regular Session on July 21, 2025, formally urging the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), through its Bureau of Quality and Safety (BQS), to conduct independent, full-scale testing of all completed road projects across the province.
The resolution, authored by Provincial Board Member (PBM) Giovanni A. Balmadrid, asserts the urgent necessity for third-party quality assurance to guarantee the structural integrity and safety of public infrastructure. It emphasizes that while the DPWH claims adherence to safety protocols, only an impartial and external evaluation can truly uncover flaws, substandard materials, or construction defects that may endanger public lives.
A parallel resolution was likewise adopted, directing Governor Patrick Alain T. Azanza to immediately engage the services of an independent, accredited testing firm to assess the safety and durability of all DPWH roadworks in Catanduanes. This dual action sends a clear and stern message: the province will not tolerate mediocrity, negligence, or potential corruption when public safety is at stake.
This aggressive oversight measure comes in the wake of a disturbing incident involving one of the 27 girders designated for installation along the San Vicente Boulevard Extension in Virac, which shattered into three pieces after being struck by a backhoe. The girderโs failure has raised serious red flags about the quality and handling of crucial public infrastructure components.
The SPโs resolution represents a strong stance against complacency and sets a precedent for rigorous accountability. The people of Catanduanes deserve roads and bridges built to last, not infrastructure that crumbles under pressure or accident. The provincial government vows to uphold transparency, accountability, and uncompromising safety standards in all public works moving forward.