Duterte inaugurates bypass in Ilocos Sur

ILOCOS SUR—President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday inaugurated the P717-million Candon City Bypass Road in Ilocos Sur.

The 7-kilometer project is estimated to cut travel time between Santa Lucia, Ilocos Sur and Santiago, Ilocos Sur to 20 minutes from 40 minutes.

The project, which has 4 lanes, begins in Barangay Ayudante and ends in Barangay Tablac.

It seeks to address bottlenecks along the Candon City section of the Manila North Road, which is used by motorists traveling between Manila and towns in Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte and Abra.

The Candon City Bypass Road is expected to serve over 13,000 motorists every day and help spur development in the area.

“This project is expected to promote economic activity and enhance mobility in the urban and rural areas of Ilocos Sur and neighboring provinces as well,” Duterte said.

“This project emphasizes the importance of infrastructure interconnectivity in the overall development of our nation. That is why the government continues to heavily invest in our 'Build, Build, Build' Program to enhance connectivity and improve our people’s movement,” he added.

The project’s construction began in April 2015 and was completed in February. It also includes the construction of the 4-lane Oaig Bridge and 4 waiting sheds.

Other officials who attended the inauguration ceremony are Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Public Works Secretary Mark Villar, Ilocos Sur Gov. Ryan Luis Singson, Ilocos Sur 2nd District Rep. Kristine Singson-Meehan, Narvacan Mayor Chavit Singson and Candon City Mayor Erickson Singson.