Candaba, Pampanga — As flooding continues to cripple transport and agriculture in Central Luzon, Candaba Mayor Rene Maglanque is urging the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to prioritize a proposed viaduct bypass road that could transform the region’s connectivity and economic resilience.
In a direct appeal to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Maglanque called for the immediate release of P30- million to fund a feasibility study for the project, which seeks to link Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Pampanga via a raised bypass road through the flood-prone Candaba Swamp.
“I appeal to Secretary Bonoan to allocate even just P30 million to begin the feasibility study. This viaduct will ensure vehicles, especially those carrying agricultural products – can pass through Candaba even during floods,” Maglanque said.
The mayor stressed that while the funding request is modest, the potential impact is critical. The viaduct would provide an all-weather transport corridor, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of goods from Nueva Ecija and Bulacan to key destinations such as Metro Manila, Clark, and Subic.
“This is a small investment for the government, but it will deliver massive returns for farmers, traders, and the entire Central Luzon economy,” he added.
Candaba’s location has long made it a chokepoint during the rainy season, with floodwaters rendering roads impassable and agricultural deliveries delayed or spoiled.
The proposed elevated road aims to solve this recurring problem with long-term infrastructure. Mayor Maglanque stressed that time is of the essence, especially as climate-related flooding becomes more frequent and damaging.
“Our farmers are losing not just crops, but income and opportunity. A viaduct bypass will not only save travel time – it will save livelihoods,” he said.
He concluded by expressing hope that the national government will take urgent action, so the project can move forward and lay the groundwork for a more connected and disaster-resilient Central Luzon.(
