Basilan steps up infra drive

LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — Major infrastructure improvements are on the horizon for Basilan, as the Bangsamoro Ministry of Public Works (MPW), through its Basilan District Engineering Office (MPW-BDEO), prepares to roll out a series of projects aimed at improving roads, drainage and water supply systems in key towns across the province.

District Engineer Kasim Hasanin said at least nine infrastructure projects — including roadworks covering around 1,000 to 1,500 meters — are in the pipeline under the MPW-BDEO’s regular infrastructure fund for 2025.

Also in the works are upgraded water systems and new drainage lines meant to ease chronic flooding in low-lying communities.

“We recently held the bidding for these projects, and our bids and awards committee is now conducting evaluations before issuing post-qualification notices, resolutions, and awards,” Hasanin said. “Once the notice to proceed is issued, contractors can mobilize, and we can begin actual work on the ground.”

He said the upcoming projects are part of a broader push to boost economic activity in Basilan through better infrastructure — particularly in areas where poor roads, lack of water access, and flooding have long hampered daily life and local commerce.

Meanwhile, short-term infrastructure works funded under the same program are already underway in several municipalities.

Hasanin added that the infrastructure push aligns closely with the development priorities of Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman, with both the provincial and district engineering offices focused on improving mobility and basic services across the island province.

In a separate development, MPW-BDEO recently turned over two fully furnished student dormitories at Basilan State College (BaSC) Sta. Clara Campus — a project worth P42 million. Each building spans over 1,300 square meters and can house up to 200 students.

“We see this as a symbol of opportunity, equity, and progress for the BaSC community,” Hasanin said.

Earlier this month, the district office also launched three infrastructure projects in Maluso, including the construction of a new road in Sitio Badjao, a triple-barrel culvert in Sitio Malimban, and a connector road from the National Highway to Mubarak Village. These projects aim to make local trading easier, especially during the rainy season when crops and other goods are at risk due to flooding.

In Lamitan City, MPW-BDEO and the city government led by Mayor Roderick Furigay also broke ground on the construction and rehabilitation of a Water System Level III. The project will cover the stretch from Barangay Arco to Barangay Tumakid-Tandung Ahas to provide residents with safe, potable water.

“These efforts are all part of a bigger goal — to raise the quality of life in Basilan, one road, one pipeline, and one project at a time,” Hasanin said.