Marcos-led NEDA board OKs WB-funded P37-B Mindanao road project

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board chaired by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., on Wednesday approved the P37-billion Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project (MTCIP).

“This is a major infrastructure push to connect Regions 10, 11, and 12. For farmers and communities in these regions, this means better roads, easier access to markets, and more opportunities to grow. It’s about unlocking the full potential of Mindanao and giving everyone the tools to succeed,” Marcos said in a Facebook post.

Headed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the transportation system project will be funded by the World Bank (WB). 

“Mindanao Transport Connectivity Transport Project is part of the master plan for high-standard Highway Network Development Project, which identified major projects that would be developed from North Luzon, Central Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said.

“This project should provide high-level traffic services by assuring high speed mobility and safe travel to vital transport socio-economic activities for development of the regions and the country as a whole,” he added.

The Mindanao transport system project will facilitate the transport of agricultural goods from isolated areas, preserve the long-term value of road assets, and minimize the expenses associated with routine and periodic road maintenance.    

It will have at least five components before its completion in 2030. — Mariel Celine Serquiña/BM, GMA Integrated News