VILLABA, LEYTE – Engineer Cesar V. Makabenta of Leyte’s Third District Engineering Office (DEO) under the Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) shared updates on key DPWH Infrastructure Projects, Plans and other Developments, as well as addressing issues and concerns during an exclusive interview with the EV Mail on June 27, 2025.
On the update regarding the Sto. Rosario–Villaba Diversion Road, DE Makabenta mentioned that the recently encountered problem in said area was due to recent heavy rains, that is, about two weeks ago that caused scouring beneath the road. He added that because of the scouring, a part of the pavement gave way, which led to the collapse of some materials placed in the area specifically on the shoulder. For this reason, he said, water flowed through the area, resulting in further erosion. As of now, he explained, only one lane is passable in that section. He also added that there is an ongoing project already there with a budget of PHP48 million.
As to the Tabango incident, particularly in the ASL Commercial Complex area, he shared that there is now “water impounding” in the area. Makabenta further explained that the reason behind it is that, historically, there is already a drainage system there, but after the place was developed and buildings were constructed, the drainage was covered or blocked. As a result, rainwater no longer had a proper outlet.
DE Makabenta also said that he has coordinated and had discussions with the mayor of Tabango, and both agreed to work together on a temporary solution while waiting for the allocated funds and a sustainable solution expected by 2026. He added that equipment will be sent to the site to scrape and remove the uneven asphalt to improve the road condition. He also emphasized the importance of strong coordination with the local government to enforce regulations properly.
The DE answered and clarified the issue posted on social media about the Hinabuyan National High School, where he stated that the building featured is not a DPWH project, that it belongs to another agency. He plans to coordinate with the one who posted to clarify the ownership of the said building.
On the progress of the Silad Port, he shared that the DPWH counterpart project there is now serving as an alternative port. “We already have boats and RoRo (roll-on/roll-off vessels) operating from Villaba’s Silad Port going to Matnog, Sorsogon,” he said. In addition, he shared, there will be projects to improve the access road leading to Silad Port.
The Third DEO, he said, now has an ongoing road-widening project in the area, expanding the road to four lanes. Makabenta revealed that he already had a discussion with the Port Manager, and the latter accordingly expressed that they are happy with the ongoing operations. “Many container vans are now loaded onto the RoRo going to Matnog, since this port is the nearest route to that area,” added DE Makabenta. (By Josie Serseña / EV Mail JUNE 30-JULY 6, 2025 issue)
