DPWH Commits to Speed Up Road Work in Malolos, Bulacan
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has pledged to accelerate ongoing road projects along three critical sections of the Manila North Road in Malolos, Bulacan. These works have been causing significant daily traffic delays for motorists and residents alike, sources reported.
Jayson Jauco, officer in charge of DPWH-Bulacan First District Engineering Office, recently met with engineers and site inspectors from ARL Construction and AESIC Construction. The meeting aimed to address the heavy traffic congestion plaguing the busy highway and to find solutions for smoother traffic flow, officials said.
Current Road Projects and Traffic Impact
Road reblocking and water interceptor flood control projects have been underway near the San Pablo intersection in Dakila and the Bulihan area for several months. These construction zones have led to traffic jams lasting from 20 minutes up to nearly an hour daily, community members noted.
Jauco emphasized the importance of minimizing disruptions. He instructed contractors to prioritize night work, keep sites clean and safe, avoid major construction during rush hours, and install proper traffic signs. “It is important that we address this for the welfare of motorists and affected residents,” he said. “We need to enforce proper traffic management protocols and construction methodologies to prevent accidents, reduce obstructions, and complete this project at the soonest possible time.”
Fast-Tracking and Safety Measures
Serving also as chief of the Construction Division of DPWH-Central Luzon, Jauco directed AESIC Construction to fast-track its reblocking project near the San Pablo intersection. The project, which started in the second quarter of this year, has a 10-month completion timeline, he added.
To ensure public safety and reduce inconvenience, the DPWH district office will closely monitor contractors’ compliance with these directives, officials confirmed. They are committed to safeguarding road users while expediting project completion.
Community Frustration Over Traffic Woes
Motorists have expressed growing frustration over the daily traffic delays. Mark Ismil, a resident of Barangay Bulihan and manager of a fast-food outlet in Bocaue, shared that he sets aside two hours every morning just to avoid being late for work due to congestion.
Other residents have taken to social media to voice their complaints about Malolos’ severe traffic problems. Mara Bautista, executive director of the Bulacan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), criticized the persistent heavy traffic, calling it a burden on the community. “Where is the traffic management? Why do we always need to suffer?” she posted online.
Malolos: A Bustling Hub Facing Traffic Challenges
Malolos, home to the provincial capitol and several national government regional offices, serves as a commercial and educational center in Central Luzon. The city hosts around 30 to 40 commercial banks, multiple universities including Bulacan State University with over 40,000 students, approximately 10 malls and supermarkets, and nearly 200 fast-food chains and local restaurants, sources said.
It is also known for cultural landmarks such as the historic Barasoain Church. However, the increasing traffic congestion threatens daily life and economic activity in this vibrant city.
Calls for Action and Leadership Changes
Last year, the BCCI passed a resolution urging city officials and stakeholders to address the worsening traffic situation in Malolos. In response, DPWH leadership recently underwent changes. On August 11, Jauco and Anatolio Mendiola Jr. were assigned as officers-in-charge of the DPWH First Bulacan District Engineering Office.
This followed the relief of former district engineers and section chiefs after the discovery of ghost flood control projects in Bulacan by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., officials reported. These leadership adjustments aim to restore public trust and ensure project integrity.
For more news and updates on DPWH road projects in Malolos, Bulacan, visit Filipinokami.com.
