The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has announced plans to prioritize repair works along the Maharlika Highway, the country’s longest road network and one of its most critical transport routes.
Running from northern Luzon through the Visayas and down to Mindanao, the Maharlika Highway serves as a lifeline for millions of commuters, traders, and motorists every day. Over the years, however, several sections of the highway have deteriorated due to constant use, aging pavement, and repeated exposure to severe weather conditions.
According to the DPWH, the upcoming repair efforts will focus on damaged and high-risk areas where road conditions have led to frequent traffic slowdowns and safety concerns. These include sections affected by potholes, uneven surfaces, weakened drainage systems, and structural wear.
Officials said improving the Maharlika Highway is a priority because of its role in connecting major cities, agricultural areas, and commercial hubs. The road is heavily used for transporting goods, making its condition essential to both local livelihoods and national economic activity.
Planned rehabilitation works include resurfacing worn-out roads, strengthening drainage systems to prevent flooding, and repairing bridges and slopes along vulnerable stretches. The DPWH also said it intends to apply more durable construction methods in areas that are regularly affected by heavy rainfall and natural disasters.
Motorists and transport operators have welcomed the announcement, noting that poor road conditions have long contributed to vehicle damage and longer travel times. At the same time, they called on authorities to manage traffic carefully during construction to avoid major disruptions.
The DPWH assured the public that repair schedules will be coordinated with regional offices and local governments to ensure work is carried out in stages. Traffic management plans will be implemented to keep roads passable while construction is ongoing.
Once completed, the repair program is expected to improve road safety, shorten travel times, and restore the Maharlika Highway’s role as a reliable backbone of the country’s transport system.
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