MARIVELES, Bataan — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) completed the P33.78-million rehabilitation of a road slope protection at a port road that connects the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) to the rest of the province.

In a statement released Wednesday, the Bataan 3rd District Engineering Office said that the agency has completed the rehabilitation of a road slope protection along the zigzag section of the Jct. Layac-Balanga-Mariveles Port Road, an area long vulnerable to erosion and landslides.

The 146.7-meter-long project includes the construction of reinforced concrete walls and erosion control systems aimed at preventing landslides, reducing road closures, and improving overall travel safety for motorists and commuters.

District Engineer Maribel Navarro said that the upgraded road section serves as a vital connection to FAB, underscoring its importance in supporting efficient transportation and logistics in the province.

“The port plays a crucial role in the region’s trade and commerce. Ensuring continued access to this route will help sustain the growth of local industries,” Navarro said.

She also noted that the completed works not only enhance road safety but also contribute to the economic development of Bataan by protecting lives and maintaining the reliability of its transport network.

Funded under the 2024 national budget, the project comprises three slope sections with berms, canals, sheet pile foundations, weep holes, and concrete wheel guards with PVC pipes to ensure efficient drainage and long-term structural stability.