DPWH fast-tracks road construction from Urdaneta to Binalonan, Pangasinan

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon is in the process of finishing the road that would result in faster travel time from Urdaneta to Binalonan in Pangasinan.

Dizon said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has specifically directed the DPWH to do away with piecemeal funding for any projects of the agency.

With this, the DPWH chief ordered full funding for the construction of the road project, which was delayed for at least six years, particularly the Binalonan-Laoac-Villasis Diversion Road in Pangasinan, in order to offset the long sacrifices of motorists and commuters due to heavy daily traffic.

Dizon said the president has ordered him to focus on the construction of the diversion road, which would result in a faster route to the towns of Urdaneta and Binalonan, Pangasinan, reducing travel time from 45 minutes to 15 minutes once it opens.

“Ang laking benepisyo nito kasi hindi na sila dadaan sa mga bayan-bayan. So, tingin ko naman ‘pag pinaliwanag natin ‘yun sa Kongreso, susuportahan tayo ng Kongreso na sisiguraduhin nila hindi mababawasan yung mga pondo na para matapos na ng buo yung mga ganitong klaseng mga project,” said Dizon.

Also, Dizon ordered the fast-tracking of the construction of the Dagupan-Mangaldan-Calasiao Bypass Road in Pangasinan, as it would reduce travel time between Dagupan, Mangaldan, and Calasiao from 40 minutes to 30 minutes.

On the other hand, Jomar Marcaraig, a truck driver from Isabela, expressed the belief that once the road is finished, transporting corn will be faster. With the TPLEX, travelers from Batangas going to Pangasinan can exit and drive directly to the bypass road, reaching other parts of Pangasinan more efficiently.

According to Rodelito Alibuyog of Brgy. Dumayat, Binalonan, the construction of the bypass road is a big help to them and would result in additional income.

He said all farmers will benefit from the project once it is finished.

The Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge in Isabela will reopen to motorists on 2 March 2026.

Dizon ordered a 60-day completion of the temporary steel bridge connector on 5 January 2026 to allow motorists to use the bridge that connects the municipalities of Cabagan and Sta. Maria.

In February 2025, the Span 3 section of the said structure collapsed.