MT Villanueva Ave. rebirth begins, advances Leni’s vision for better mobility, safer streets

By Jason B. Neola

THE long-awaited redevelopment of MT Villanueva Avenue moved forward Thursday, October 1, with Mayor Leni Robredo’s initiative to secure national government funding for the project finally translating into actual construction.

Work on the P31-million MT Villanueva Redevelopment Project began under the supervision of Robredo and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon, following the release of the Special Allotment Release Order for the undertaking.

The project was originally estimated at P40 million but was reduced to P31 million after the winning bidder submitted a lower bid.

Robredo had sought assistance from the national government to secure funding for the redevelopment, which forms part of her administration’s 2028 Finish Lines, particularly its vision for improved mobility, safer streets and better public infrastructure in her city.

Dizon, according to Robredo, had noted that the incident might possibly have been prevented had the project not encountered delays.

The observation came in the wake of the September 20 death of public school teacher Jao Francis Per Mancera, who was struck by a speeding car while crossing a pedestrian lane along MT Villanueva Avenue.

Upon completion, the redevelopment is expected to provide safer pedestrian areas, protected bike lanes and improved facilities for commuters, along with adequate street lighting and a more reliable drainage system.

The project also includes the establishment of a tree-lined streetscape on both sides of the avenue and the planned installation of underground cabling.

Dizon also vowed to personally oversee the construction to ensure its completion at the soonest possible time, in response to the city government’s desire to fast-track the project. It is expected to be completed within six to seven months.