Due to the frequent landslides and rockfalls along Kennon Road, particularly in Barangay Camp 4, Tuba, Benguet, especially during the rainy season, the construction of a rock shed began on January 10, 2023, to ensure the safety of passing motorists.
The project is estimated to cost over 264 million pesos.
The target completion date was set for January 2024.
However, construction is still ongoing.
“The last report I received indicated December,” said Atty. George Fukai III, Chairperson of the Task Force Kennon.
According to the project engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Cordillera, although 78% of the work is completed and some residents can already pass through, it could still be extended until February.
The work has been affected during inclement weather.
“Work is ongoing, but it seems to take longer. One lane is passable, but if you look at it, not even half of the area has a roof yet. I don’t know; it’s up to DPWH,” said Mayor Clarita Sal-Ongan, Municipality of Tuba, Benguet.
Due to the ongoing construction, both residents and motorists are still facing difficulties, and motorists who could save time on their trips when using Kennon Road are particularly affected.
“They should expedite this because if the rainy season comes again, it will be delayed,” Sal-Ongan added.
For now, only one lane of the road is available for motorists.
**VANESSA BUGTONG
