Tacurong: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Sultan Kudarat 1st District Engineering Office (DEO-1) is expediting a PHP53.4-million road widening project to alleviate persistent traffic issues in Tacurong City.

According to Philippines News Agency, work intensified on the Dulawan-Marbel Road, a major national highway section long plagued by heavy traffic and safety concerns, despite recent adverse weather conditions. The road widening from four to six lanes includes the removal of obstructions, widening of carriageways with thick concrete, installation of drainage culverts, and reinforced shoulders for pedestrian and emergency use, as stated by officer-in-charge district engineer Alihar Mama in an interview.

Road safety features such as reflectorized markings, updated guardrails, and new lighting are also being integrated. Mama noted that the road segment is crucial to Sultan Kudarat's traffic system as daily congestion worsens due to the increasing number of public and private vehicles. He emphasized that the expansion is not just about adding lanes but ensuring safer, faster, and more reliable travel for thousands of road users every day.

Funded under the General Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2025, the construction has reached 25.18 percent actual accomplishment as of July 21. Once completed, the widened road is expected to reduce traffic bottlenecks, lower accident risks, and provide a long-term solution to the growing mobility challenges faced by commuters and motorists in the city.