By CESAR JOLITO III

The Hinigaran municipal government has formally called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 2nd Engineering District to expedite the ongoing road construction along a section of the national highway, citing worsening traffic congestion and growing public frustration.

In a statement, Hinigaran Mayor Grace Arceo expressed concern over the slow progress of the project, saying the pace of work indicates that the construction is “not being treated as a priority.”

The appeal came after the local government received a series of complaints from motorists and residents who have been affected by road blockages and traffic build-up caused by the project.

According to the municipal government, the affected stretch is a major national highway that serves daily commuters, public utility vehicles, cargo trucks, emergency responders, and travelers passing through Hinigaran.

Traffic conditions have reportedly deteriorated further with the surge in vehicle volume during the holiday season.

“Complaints from motorists and residents have significantly increased, especially during the current holiday rush when traffic volume is at its peak,” the statement read.

The locality urged the DPWH to immediately direct the project contractor to accelerate construction activities, strictly implement the approved work schedule, and ensure continuous operations until the project is completed.

Arceo emphasized that public safety and mobility should be prioritized, calling for stricter oversight to prevent prolonged disruption along the busy highway.

As of press time, the DPWH has yet to issue a public response to the concerns raised by the Hinigaran municipal government./CJ, WDJ