The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to accelerate strategic infrastructure development in conflict-affected areas, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to fast-track the Road Network Development Project in Conflict-Affected Areas in Mindanao (RNDP-CAAM).

The initiative aims to strengthen connectivity and sustain peace in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Project updates and rollout strategies were discussed during the 5th Steering Committee Meeting in Cotabato City, led by Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain. The meeting reaffirmed the agency’s commitment under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda to deliver high-impact road projects that reinforce peace and stability, promote inclusive growth, improve mobility, and expand economic opportunities in historically underserved communities.

The DPWH Unified Project Management Office – Roads Management Cluster I oversees the implementation of the RNDP-CAAM, which consists of three major components covering a total of 80.97 kilometers.

Sub-Project 2, the 36.73-kilometer Parang–Balabagan Road traversing Maguindanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur, will serve as an alternative to Asian Highway 26. It includes 16 bridges and one underpass, with Contract Package 2 currently underway and other packages progressing.

Sub-Project 8, the 7.07-kilometer Parang East Diversion Road in Maguindanao del Norte, features four bridges and has reached more than 15 percent completion since civil works began in June 2025.

Sub-Project 9, the 17.42-kilometer Manuangan–Parang Road in Maguindanao del Norte, will link Asian Highway 26 to the Davao–Cotabato Road. The project includes two major bridges and is advancing through coordinated efforts among implementing agencies, local government units, and security forces.

The RNDP-CAAM is funded through a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency. The project seeks to address low road density in BARMM by constructing new national roads to enhance access to markets, essential services, and employment opportunities.

The initiative forms part of the government’s broader peace and development strategy, underscoring infrastructure as a critical driver of regional stability and economic growth.