MANILA: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) was commended by Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. on Tuesday for allowing shredded plastic waste as an additive in asphalt to extend the lifespan of roads across the country. 'Noon pa man ay minumungkahi ko na sa DPWH na gawing resilient at sustainable ang mga proyekto nila (I have long suggested to DPWH to make their projects sustainable and resilient), and they did not disappoint with this new policy," Revilla said in a news release. Under Department Order 139 s. 2024, the DPWH approved the use of low-density polyethylene plastic bag waste in hot mix asphalt, which sets a new standard in the use of Bituminous Concrete Surface Course that is now incorporated with the new material. In line with the new policy, Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan directed all regional offices, district engineering offices, and Unified Project Management Office clusters to comply with the order as it not only promotes recycling efforts but also improves asphalt's re sistance to deformation. "Nakakatuwa kasi hindi lang ito para mas magiging sustainable ang mga proyekto nila kundi malaking tulong rin ito sa waste management (I am glad because this will not only make projects sustainable but it is also a big help to waste management),' Revilla said. Source: Philippines News Agency