Some 60 trucks with vibro sand materials were used to restore the heavily-damaged portion of the McArthur Highway in Apalit town.
On Saturday, August 2, Pampanga Vice Governor Dennis Pineda and Apalit Mayor Jun Tetangco supervised the actual covering of huge potholes which caused nightmares to motorists and residents.
This effort provided relief to motorists and commuters who use the road, which stretches in Barangays San Vicente, Sampaloc, and Paligui.
The section of the highway has been causing heavy traffic and accidents due to its bad state.
Potholes and crevices have been exacerbated by the recent flooding and poor drainage system in the area.
Graders, compactors, and wheel loaders were also deployed in the rehabilitation works to improve the road surface.
The provincial government said the deterioration of the road was caused by “an unfinished road project by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)."
The road rehabilitation was supported by the Porac Quarry and Truckers Association, Primemix Group, and HMD JV.
Tetangco called on the national government for swift action.
“Mr. President, nung 2023 na nag-meeting ho tayo, sinabi ng DPWH na gagawin na nila ngayong 2024, na kumpleto na yung pondo. 2025 na po, hindi pa rin natatapos ang project na ito. Sana po tapusin na—hindi lang po taga-Apalit ang naabala, maraming tao ang naaapektuhan,” Tetangco said.
Temporary patching works in Barangay San Vicente have been completed while rehabilitation works in other areas are still ongoing as of press time.