Samar: The Joint Task Force Region 8 - End Local Communist Armed Conflict (JTF8-ELCAC) has approved a resolution endorsing to the Regional Development Council 8 (Eastern Visayas) the proposed PHP11.19 billion unity roads to enhance connectivity in the boundaries of Samar Island.
According to Philippines News Agency, Samar's provincial government reported on Tuesday that among the approved projects are the Matuguinao-Silvino Lobos Road, Matuguinao-Las Navas Road, Calbayog-Bobon Road, San Jose de Buan-Maslog Road, San Jose de Buan-Las Navas Road, and Calbiga-Borongan Road.
These proposed unity roads, with a total length of 181.17 km, are designed to enhance access among the provinces of Samar, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar.
JTF8-ELCAC members endorsed these projects during their meeting on March 6 with Education Secretary Edgardo Angara, the JTF8-ELCAC chair and Cabinet Officer for the Regional Development and Security 8.
'These unity road projects underscore the importance of road interconnectivity, linking three provinces and reaching geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. Expanding road networks ensures efficient delivery of health services and social programs and curbs insurgency by addressing poverty and other social issues,' Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan said in a statement.
Governors in Samar Island have been pushing for funding of key road projects within the tri-boundaries, which have been identified as hiding places of remaining members of the New People's Army (NPA).
Meanwhile, the Philippine Army reported strengthened collaboration among the military, police, local government units, and other stakeholders leading to successful initiatives, such as the dismantling of guerrilla fronts, the disruption of illegal activities, and an improved security environment in the region.
Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the Army's 8th Infantry Division, noted that since 2019, the Army-led JTF Storm has recorded 461 combat engagements with NPA fighters and 791 neutralized communist terrorists.
The campaign also led to the seizure of 1,124 firearms, the recovery of 703 banned anti-personnel mines, and the discovery of 620 hideouts.
Orio cited the importance of continued collaboration and coordination among various sectors to achieve lasting peace.
