DPWH raises 2027 budget to P643.95bn, fast-tracks feasibility studies for priority links

The Philippines Department of Public Works and Highways is proposing a P643.95-billion budget for 2027, up from P529.5 billion this year, to speed up feasibility studies for priority infrastructure. The agency is targeting completion of feasibility work by 2027 for the Sorsogon-Samar link and Leyte-

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is raising its project support budget to expedite the completion of feasibility studies, ensuring that priority infrastructure projects obtain prompt funding.

For 2027, the DPWH is proposing a P643.95-billion budget, compared to an approved budget of P529.5 billion this year, Public Works Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon told the House Committee on Appropriations on Wednesday.

The budget proposal includes P199.58 billion for national road system programs, P83.84 billion for flood management, P117.74 billion for foreign-assisted projects, and P27.3 billion for support to operations programs, including funding for feasibility studies and right-of-way acquisition.

For next year, Mr. Dizon said the DPWH is focusing on the feasibility studies of key projects such as the Sorsogon-Samar link and Leyte-Surigao inter-island crossing project.

“It is an important project; it is a critical link. Our commitment for the feasibility study is to be completed by 2027 (ahead of securing) a funding source,” he said.

The project’s completion will take about six years, Mr. Dizon said, noting that some multilateral banks have expressed interest in helping fund it.