Clavecilla optimistic on Quezon-Bicol Expressway

By Paulo DS. Papa

Undersecretary Marvel Clavecilla, Presidential Assistant for Bicol Affairs, expressed optimism that the construction of Quezon-Bicol Expressway (QBEx) would continue under the next administration.

Clavecilla told Bicol Mail that he is hopeful that the next president would allow the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to continue the construction of the QBEx.

He added that its construction has already started in Calamba, Laguna. However, the road work faced several delays due to problems on acquisition of right-of-way from affected land owners with regard to land valuation.

Clavecilla said the government alloted about P73 billion to P700 billion for the construction of the 220 kilometer QBEx that will provide transport backbone to Bicol. It covers the towns of Pagbilao, Padre Burgos, Gumaca, Lopez, Calauag and Tagkawayan, all in Quezon province, and Lupi and Pamplona in Camarines Sur.

He said the QBEx is included in the infastructure projects of the Duterte administration for Bicol.

The Duterte administration via Build Build Build program is behind the completion of the eight-storey hospital building, cardio center and malasakit center inside the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City and the Bicol International Airport in Daraga Albay.

Meanwhile, Ronald Rodriguez, VP Leni’s regional campaign manager in Bicol assured that Robredo, in case she is elected president, will continue the QBEx project.