Candaba, Pampanga – At least three provinces will directly benefit from the construction of the proposed P30-million viaduct bypass road in this town, boosting the region’s connectivity and economic resilience.

According to Mayor Rene Maglanque, the need to expedite the budget from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in prioritizing the proposed viaduct bypass road would help boost the economic growth of the area.

He added that this would also help alleviate the flooding problem that plagued the town of Candaba, known for connecting the provinces of Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Pampanga.

Maglanque has appealed to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan that the said raised bypass road would ensure vehicles, especially those carrying agricultural products, can pass through Candaba even during floods.

The mayor stressed that while the funding request is modest, the potential impact is critical. The viaduct would provide an all-weather transport corridor, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of goods from Nueva Ecija and Bulacan to key destinations such as Metro Manila, Clark, and Subic.

“This is a small investment for the government, but it will deliver massive returns for farmers, traders, and the entire Central Luzon economy,” he added.

Candaba’s location has long made it a chokepoint during the rainy season, with floodwaters rendering roads impassable and agricultural deliveries delayed or spoiled.

The proposed elevated road aims to solve this recurring problem with long-term infrastructure. Mayor Maglanque stressed that time is of the essence, especially as climate-related flooding becomes more frequent and damaging.

“Our farmers are losing not just crops, but income and opportunity. A viaduct bypass will not only save travel time - it will save livelihoods,” he said.

He concluded by expressing hope that the national government will take urgent action, so the project can move forward and lay the groundwork for a more connected and disaster-resilient Central Luzon.