Negros Occidental third district Rep. Alfredo Benitez recently led a coordination and consultative meeting on the Bacolod-Victorias Coastal Road Project to discuss concerns regarding the infrastructure project and its potential environmental impact ahead of the planned feasibility study.

Speaking with various officials, along with representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the congressman said the project would reduce congestion along the national highway, provide shoreline protection and reclamation opportunities, and implement flood control measures.

DPWH Regional Director Lea Delfinado said the project would span 37 kilometers between Bacolod City and Victorias City, span 11 bridges, and cost around P15 billion.

Also present for the meeting were EB Magalona Mayor Marvin Malacon, Silay City Mayor Mark Golez, Talisay City Mayor Neil Lizares III, Victorias City Mayor Francis Frederick Palanca, Victorias City Vice Mayor Jerry Jover, Provincial Board Member Manuel Frederick Ko, among others./WDJ