Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon disclosed Friday that the agency will finish the bridge in Pangasinan after 10 years.

Dizon made the assurance after receiving a marching order from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., noting that residents and motorists face difficulties traveling between Villasis and Sto. Tomas.

“Pinamamadali na ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ang konstruksyon ng Villasis-Sto. Tomas Bridge sa Pangasinan, upang hindi na kailangang bumiyahe ng malayo ng mga residente at motorista papuntang Sto. Tomas at pabalik ng Villasis,” Dizon said.

He explained that residents and motorists spend additional gasoline and travel hours to reach the two areas in Pangasinan.

“Lahat ng mga nakatengga, pipilitin nating matapos ng end of 2027, bago matapos ang term ni PBBM. ’Yun ang commitment natin. At base sa mga nakikita ko and doon sa mga pondo na kinakailangan, tingin ko very, very possible ’yun,” he added, noting that DPWH officials inspected the area Friday.

The DPWH secretary said that once the bridge is finished in 2027, travel time will be reduced to five minutes compared to 30 minutes before its completion, relieving residents and motorists of the current burden.

Residents expressed relief over Dizon’s assurance, noting that it is the largest bridge in the area and will facilitate the transport of products. They added that travel to Manila and back will be shortened compared to using the alternate bridge, which faces heavy traffic.