Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon on Wednesday, January 14, reopened a gravel road in Sitio Kapulot, Barangay Palacapao, Quezon, restoring a vital connection between Bukidnon, Northern Mindanao, and the Davao regions after months of disruption caused by a landslide last year.
Key Link Restored After Months of Disruption
The collapse of a mountain road section in October 2025 had stalled traffic and trade in the region. The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) estimated economic losses at over P180 million daily in Northern Mindanao, with total losses reaching P14.07 billion by December 31, 2025.
“The good news is that vehicular traffic is now normalized,” Dizon said, adding that the restored route would ease the movement of goods and commuters and prevent further economic losses.
Detour Upgraded Into Permanent Road
The reopened four-lane gravel road, costing over P46 million, was initially built as a temporary detour by JT Gamolo Construction of Valencia City, Bukidnon. Dizon confirmed it will now serve as the permanent replacement for the collapsed section of the Quezon town highway.
The October landslide had claimed the lives of an elderly couple after the tricycle they were riding was swept into the mudslide. Dizon inspected the road’s drainage system and later met with Senator Miguel Zubiri, Bukidnon Governor Oneil Roque, and Quezon Mayor Poleng Lorenzon before formally reopening the route.
Asphalting to Begin, Traffic Management in Place
Dizon ordered the asphalting of a 460-meter segment, funded by the DPWH Regional Quick Reaction Fund. The P20-million contract was awarded to Suprea Philippines Development Corporation of Cebu, with work starting at 10 p.m. to allow vehicles to pass and minimize disruption. Completion is targeted for January 18.
The gravel road project itself was awarded on December 5, 2025, by DPWH Region X Director Lilibeth Aparcio, marking a critical step in restoring a safe, permanent route for motorists and goods in Northern Mindanao.
