IN THE REMOTE reaches of Calinog, Iloilo, a transformative project is underway. With a budget of P135 million, a significant road concreting project aims to reshape the lives of residents in Barangay Hilwan and its neighboring areas.
For the most isolated barangays, such as Hilwan, infrastructural development represents more than mere convenience. It is a vital lifeline that connects residents to the broader socioeconomic landscape. The project, supported by a collaboration among the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and local governmental agencies, promises to reduce travel times significantly and improve the quality of life for approximately 665 residents.
But the road project in Hilwan is not just about laying concrete; it’s about laying the foundation for a stronger community and a robust local economy. The direct benefits are manifold. Firstly, it will lower transportation costs dramatically. For residents who currently rely on motorcycles to navigate the rough terrain to the town center, and who pay upwards of P300 per trip, the new roads will ease financial burdens and increase accessibility. Moreover, local products, particularly abaca — a major agricultural output of Barangay Hilwan — will reach broader markets more efficiently, reducing haulage costs that have long stifled the local economy.
Beyond economics, building roads in remote villages will enhance safety and accessibility, proving crucial during emergencies when time is of the essence. Educational opportunities will become more accessible, allowing children and adults alike to travel to schools and educational programs, which were previously a daunting journey away.
In Hilwan, the road project also holds promise for eco-tourism — a burgeoning industry that thrives on the accessibility of natural attractions. With the enhanced road network, spots like the Bugsokan and Igbagyo waterfalls are set to become more accessible, attracting tourists whose spending will boost local businesses and create new jobs.
This road project in Calinog is an example of how targeted infrastructural investments can uplift entire communities. It underscores the importance of extending such developments to other remote barangays across the Philippines. Every road built is a step towards inclusivity, ensuring that the benefits of growth and development are not confined to urban centers but are shared across the nation.
