By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Both the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) appealed for understanding from the public amid roadwork that appears to have worsened Bacolod City traffic.
Among the areas where the national agency is implementing road improvements are Lacson Street in Barangay Mandalagan, Circumferential Road, Burgos Street, and Barangay Alijis. The CEO, meanwhile, is responsible for repairs to the road in Bangga La Salle.
District Engineer Abraham Villareal issued the appeal on behalf of the DPWH, adding he has received complaints from motorists about the agency replacing or repairing roads that appear to be in good condition.
He said the agency uses a road condition survey, which assesses the condition of a road beyond the naked eye.
Villareal explained the survey determines structural integrity, distresses, skid resistance, and overall riding quality of pavement.
CEO head, Engr. Noel Empreso, stated they too have been receiving complaints.
The Bangga La Salle road project, he said, has already been repaired four times, but vehicles continue to pass through even though the required 28-day “curing period” is not yet complete.
He also clarified the ongoing roadworks in front of City Mall in Barangay Mandalagan is handled by the DPWH./WDJ