Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio "Dong" Gonzales Jr., Pampanga Governor Dennis Pineda, and Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) President and CEO Rogelio Singson lead the groundbreaking ceremony for the 3rd Candaba Viaduct project at Barangay Dulong Malabon in Pulilan, Bulacan Wednesday morning.
SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday called for more projects through public-private partnership, saying it’s the key to the modernization of the country’s infrastructure necessary to usher progress and development and uplift the lives of our people.
The Speaker aired this call in his message at the groundbreaking rites for the Third Candaba Viaduct project of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) and NLEx Corp. held at Brgy. Dulong Malabon in Pulilan, Bulacan.
Targeted for completion on November 2024, the project will expand the existing viaduct structure by adding inner and outer shoulders to the three lanes in each direction and is expected to increase the speed of travel from the current 40-60 kph to 60-80 kph.
“The Candaba Third Viaduct serves as a symbol of the fruitful partnership between the government and the private sector. It is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal,” he said.
He expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. for his unwavering support for the development of the country’s infrastructure.
“Under his visionary leadership, we have witnessed a renewed commitment to the Build Build Build program, which aims to propel our nation towards progress and inclusive growth,” he said.
He also cited the relentless push of Pampanga Representatives in the 19th Congress, including Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales, Jr., Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and Representatives Jon Lazatin and Anna York Bondoc, as well as the cooperation of local government officials of Bulacan and Pampanga, which helped make the project a reality the soonest time possible.
Speaker Romualdez noted that the Candaba Viaduct, which has been serving as a strategic expressway link connecting Metro Manila and the Central and North Luzon corridor for several decades, has played a vital role in facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services.
“However, as our population grows and our economy expands, it is imperative that we invest in the modernization and expansion of our infrastructure,” he pointed out.
Constructed in the 70’s the 5-km viaduct traverses the Candaba Swamp and connects the provinces of Bulacan and Pampanga. Initially built with a 2 x 2 configuration or two lanes for each direction, it was converted in 2017 to a 2 x 3 to maximize its capacity and is now serving an estimated 80,000 motorists daily.
“The construction of the Candaba Third Viaduct is a testament to our collective commitment to meet these growing demands head-on. This project, with the support of President Bongbong Marcos, is a significant component of the government’s Build Build Build program,” he said.
“It exemplifies our determination to enhance connectivity, promote economic development, and uplift the lives of our people,” Speaker Romualdez added.
He noted that the project will not only enhance the efficiency of our transportation network but also contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the region, as it would create jobs, attract investments, and stimulate economic growth.
“As we break ground today, we are not just laying the foundation for a new structure; we are paving the way for progress, prosperity, and a brighter future for our nation. The Candaba Third Viaduct will stand tall as a symbol of our aspirations, our commitment to sustainable development, and our unwavering dedication to the welfare of our people,” Speaker Romualdez pointed out.
Last May, the House of Representatives approved on third reading House Bill No. 8078, seeking to adopt a 30-year National Infrastructure Program (NIP).
