From ABS-CBN News

By Alexia Bangayan

As of Tuesday, March 31, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) temporarily suspended its ongoing road projects nationwide throughout Holy Week to help ease traffic congestion and reduce fuel consumption.

In a press briefing, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said that all district engineers and regional offices were directed to stop ongoing projects and avoid stop-and-go traffic schemes, which often slow vehicles and increase fuel consumption.

“The flow of traffic has to be continuous,” he emphasized.

He explained that the directive is part of a joint effort with other government agencies to ensure smoother travel for millions of Filipinos returning to their provinces.

Dizon added that reducing road obstructions would help shorten travel time and conserve fuel, which is important amid rising fuel prices.

The DPWH highlighted that critical locations along the Maharlika Highway, including Gumaca, Quezon, and segments in Camarines Sur, Albay, and Samar, have received temporary patchwork repairs to maintain traffic flow during the holiday rush.

“Madami pang kailangan ayusin lalo na dun sa mga traffic-prone areas, tulad ‘yung intersection sa Gumaca,” Dizon stated, pointing out locations that previously caused congestion.

He also noted that the government is working with the Department of Energy (DOE) and private suppliers to ensure a steady supply of fuel and materials during the holidays.

“Mayro’n naman tayong mga mekanismo para magtaas ng presyo … para hindi mahirapan ‘yung mga ongoing na contractor na mag-request ng price increase kapag tumaas ang presyo ng materyales,” he explained, adding that safeguards are in place to prevent abuse.

The suspension order, issued over the weekend, will remain in effect until Easter Sunday, April 5, after which construction activities are set to resume at 4 a.m. on Monday, April 6.