KORONADAL CITY: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Soccsksargen region has completed a new PHP115.8 million bypass road in Banisilan, North Cotabato, which is anticipated to enhance traffic flow and boost the local economy.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Malapag-Tinimbacan-Banisilan Bypass Road, unveiled on Monday, extends 4.531 kilometers and includes two lanes, paved shoulders, and a lined canal. DPWH-12 Director Basir M. Ibrahim highlighted the road’s role in improving regional connectivity and economic growth, noting that it will ease travel by diverting traffic from congested routes, thereby reducing travel time, distance, and vehicle operating costs.
The bypass, funded through the General Appropriations Act of 2023, is especially significant for Banisilan, a key agricultural center known for its production of corn, palay, rubber, sugarcane, and fruit trees. The improved infrastructure is expected to provide substantial benefits to local farmers by improving access for bot
h commuters and goods.
In addition to the bypass, DPWH-12 also announced the reopening of the Midsayap-Makar Road, which had been closed for a decade due to right-of-way issues. This road is crucial as it connects various significant locations including Midsayap in North Cotabato, Datu Piang and Ampatuan in Maguindanao del Sur, Isulan and Tacurong City in Sultan Kudarat, and Koronadal in South Cotabato to Makar in General Santos City.
Local farmer Ismael Isidro from Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, expressed his relief over the road’s reopening. He reported a drastic reduction in travel time for delivering farm products to General Santos City, now achievable within one to two hours, which marks a significant improvement from previous durations.