The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has allocated a P59 billion budget under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) to finance 990 projects across the MIMAROPA region. This was announced by DPWH Region IV-B Regional Director Gerald Pacanan during the maiden episode of “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” on May 28.
Out of this budget, the regional office has been allocated P36.9 billion to fund 212 projects. Specifically for Palawan, the first Engineering District will receive P2.4 billion for 132 projects, the second Engineering District will get P1.9 billion for 77 projects, and the third Engineering District, which includes Puerto Princesa and Aborlan municipality, will have P860 million for 46 projects.
“Nadagdagan ito from time to time based ito kung dina-download ng DOH, Department of Tourism ang mga projects nila dadagdag. Gaya ng DA dahil sa farm-to-market roads natin, itong figures ay based on GAA 2024,” Pacanan said.
Pacanan noted that these allocations could increase as additional projects from other departments, such as the h Department of Health and the Department of Tourism, are included. The Department of Agriculture’s projects, particularly farm-to-market roads, also contribute to these figures.
During the presentation of the department’s accomplishments, Pacanan highlighted the completion of 1,039.422 kilometers of roads and 279 bridges in Palawan, part of the region’s total of 2,296.948 kilometers of roads and 639 bridges.
Project facilitation depends on the budget and delegated authority from the DPWH secretary. Projects costing between P150 million to P300 million are managed at the regional level, while those under P150 million are handled by district offices. Some projects, even those below P150 million, might be assigned to the regional office based on decisions by lawmakers and other agencies.
Pacanan also emphasized that district offices could manage larger projects if they obtain the necessary authority from higher units, especially for continuing projects or those requiring specific technical capacities.
“Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas,” organized by the Presidential Communications Office through the Philippine Information Agency, aims to enhance public understanding of government programs.
The event, held every Tuesday at 9:00 am, features different departments each week and is broadcast across multimedia platforms.