06/08/2025
CBNews | 𝗦𝗣 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗣𝗪𝗛 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗔𝗺𝗶𝗱 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗻𝘀
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 girder’s failure has raised serious red flags about the quality and handling of crucial public infrastructure components.
The SP’s 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.