Manila: Sen. Panfilo Lacson has submitted a resolution calling for an investigation into the rehabilitation efforts of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), following the appearance of potholes on newly repaired sections after recent heavy monsoon rains.
According to Philippines News Agency, Senate Resolution 594 directs the Senate Committee on Public Works to conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation into the road's rehabilitation, focusing on its design and engineering standards and the accountability of those involved in public infrastructure projects. Lacson emphasized that the persistent southwest monsoon rains have led to damage in several main thoroughfares, including the recently rehabilitated sections of EDSA, necessitating another round of maintenance.
Lacson expressed concerns about the rapid deterioration of newly rehabilitated roads, particularly EDSA, which raises questions about the planning, design, construction, and management of costly infrastructure projects. He highlighted the government's funding of the Department of Public Works and Highways' (DPWH) Asset Preservation Program, aimed at improving national roads and enhancing their resilience to natural disasters.
Furthermore, Lacson pointed out that while the DPWH regularly conducts preventive maintenance and repairs on EDSA, the highway has not undergone a recent full rehabilitation to restore it to optimal condition. The proposed Senate inquiry intends to assess whether existing standards and safeguards are adequate to prevent the premature deterioration of major road projects and ensure accountability from contractors and government agencies.