ILOILO – The completion of the Lambunao, Iloilo to Valderrama, Antique road, also known as the Panay East-West Lateral Road Project, is set to significantly reduce the travel time from Iloilo to the renowned Boracay Island.
Currently, the journey to Caticlan, Malay, Aklan, the gateway to Boracay, requires about five hours. This duration is expected to be shortened by two hours upon the project’s completion.
The construction of the 41-kilometer Lambunao-Valderrama road began in 2017, facilitated by then Iloilo 3rd District congressman and now governor Arthur Defensor Jr., who secured funding for the project.
The initiative has continued under the direction of his brother, Cong. Lorenz Defensor.
Managed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the project boasts a total budget ranging from P2.4 billion to P2.8 billion and is anticipated to conclude by 2026.
Featuring a 20-meter-wide thoroughfare, including bridges and slope protection, the road is still under construction, particularly the remaining section stretching over 10 kilometers from Barangay Agsirab to Barangay Cabatangan in Lambunao, up to the boundary of Valderrama.
Upon its completion, it will offer an alternative route to the central and northern parts of Antique and from Antique to Capiz.
Moreover, it will reduce the travel time from Iloilo to Caticlan, to just three hours.
Beyond shortening travel times, the Panay East-West Lateral Road aims to enhance tourism and boost agricultural productivity in the region.
Members of the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Press Corps and the Public Information and Community Affairs Office (PICAO) of the provincial government inspected the ongoing construction progress on April 6.
Guided by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Lambunao, the group visited Barangay Agsirab, the farthest barangay accessible by regular vehicle, and also toured a road section in Barangay Hipgos, Lambunao that traverses a mountain.
Another route contributing to shorter travel times between Iloilo and Antique is the Igtuble-Tubungan – Aningalan, San Remigio route, which is now open to motorists. (With additional reporting from Capitol News)/PN