Friday, February 16, 2007 Public works execs to clarify toll collections By Jane Cadalig
OFFICIALS of the Department of Public Work and Highways (DPWH) are being summoned to appear before the Benguet Provincial Board (PB) to clarify matters regarding the collection of toll along the main roads of the province.
The invitation came following a proposal requesting the direct release of the Province’s share from the fees collected at the Kennon Road and Halsema tollgates.
Board Member Juan Nazarro Jr. said there is a need to know the actual collection of the DPWH from the tollgates first before the Provincial Government could even ask for its direct release.
Fees collected from the Kennon and Halsema tollgates are remitted directly to the national treasury.
An earlier proposal was referred to the Board asking Representative Samuel Dangwa to pass a bill seeking the direct remittance of Benguet’s share from the toll.
The fees collected from these gates, which range from P10 to P20, are being used for the maintenance of Kennon and Halsema, including the facilities along these highways such as the public restrooms and viewing decks.
The direct remittance of Benguet’s share from these toll collections is expected to facilitate the upgrade of main roads and the public facilities here.
