DPWH secretary inspects subway

CEBU, Philippines - Department of Public Works and Highways acting Secretary Victor Domingo inspected the tunnel section of the Cebu South Coastal Road Project (CSCRP) yesterday afternoon.

Escorted by Japanese engineer Hikonari Maeda of Kajima Construction and project manager Nilo Pamaylon, Domingo said he was impressed by the tunnel, which is now 88 percent complete.

According to Domingo, 40 percent of Cebu City’s traffic will be lessened once the tunnel will open. He said the tunnel’s completion will also serve as the completion of the CSCRP.

The tunnel is one of the top priorities of the administration of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who is set to inspect the project on her birthday on January 27.

Domingo said it would be their best gift to the president if the tunnel will meet its completion date. The contractor is confident that they will finish the project before March 25.

The P5.92 billion project is divided into three segments: the Talisay City section, the causeway section, and the viaduct cum subway section, which also compromises three sections - the viaduct, offshore ramps and tunnel.

The subway involves the construction of a 610-meter twin box tunnel, a 186-meter reinforced concrete retaining structure, and a 177.5-meter road work for north approach. — Antoniette Parce/LPM    (FREEMAN NEWS)