The completion of a new concrete road in Barangay Balicotoc, Ilog, Negros Occidental reduces the duration of travel and improves movement of goods and people.

DPWH Region 6 Director Nerie D. Bueno said that the 695-lineal meter road project divided into two (2) sections was implemented by Negros Occidental 3rd District Engineering Office in the amount of P9.9 million.

The 472.1-lineal meter Section 1 is part of the local road network of Ilog to Kabankalan City through Barangay Tapi, connecting to the 222.8-lineal meter Section 2 which serves as an access road to the neighboring barangay of Magballo in Kabankalan City.

The project involves upgrading of the road to a 2-lane, 6-meter wide concrete road with provision of grouted riprap and stone masonry for slope protection, and safety guardrails for motorists and pedestrians.

Due to frequent rain, the route in this mountainous area used to be rough and muddy, making it difficult for farmers to carry their crops including rice, corn, and sugarcane.

“With this improved road, local trade is now faster, more convenient, and less costly especially to those in far-flung areas of Ilog going to Kabankalan City and the town of Candoni,” added Director Bueno.