Senator Panfilo Lacson has initiated a call for a Senate investigation into the ongoing rehabilitation projects on Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA). His request comes after heavy rains revealed fresh potholes on sections of the highway recently repaired.
Investigative Focus on Public Works
Rapid deterioration of recently rehabilitated roads, most notably EDSA, just months after completion exposes deep-seated flaws in the planning, design, construction, and management of high-cost public infrastructure projects.
Sen. Panfilo Lacson
Lacson filed Senate Resolution 594, which calls on the Senate Committee on Public Works to investigate the matter. The aim is to review the design and engineering standards of public infrastructure to ensure accountability.
- New potholes appearing on EDSA after monsoon rains.
- Calls for a review of DPWH's standards and compliance.
Recent monsoon rains have caused significant damage to multiple major roads across Luzon, including sections of EDSA, raising concerns about the quality of recent repairs. Lacson pointed out that the national government allocates funds for the Asset Preservation Program through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to enhance national road quality.
He emphasized that while the DPWH has conducted routine maintenance and repairs, comprehensive rehabilitation has not been undertaken recently, which is crucial for the road's optimal condition.
Lacson's resolution stresses the importance of Congress exercising its oversight function over the DPWH's implementation of the Asset Preservation Program and ensuring contractors adhere to established design and engineering standards.