Enhancing Road Safety with Maccaferri’s Rockfall Protection System in Tacloban City

Tacloban City, the capital of Leyte in Eastern Visayas, Philippines, has long played a pivotal role as an urban and distribution center for the Eastern Visayas Islands. However, its access roads have presented substantial challenges, causing accidents and inconveniences for commuters and hindering the city’s potential.

 

Recognizing the urgency, Maccaferri Philippines collaborated with the Department of Public Works and Highways, a team of designers, and contractors. Their joint effort aimed to preserve, rehabilitate, and reconstruct the Tigbao – Sta. Fe – San Miguel Road, dealing with road slips, slope collapses, and landslides. The goal was not just repairs but a fundamental transformation for safer, more reliable access.

 

The dedicated team of engineers and designers sought to simplify access to Tacloban City and neighboring cities and municipalities, benefiting countless motorists with a more convenient alternative route. The downgrading construction of the steep road commenced in December 2020, involving a reduction of over 60 meters in elevation. The exposed slopes became prone to rockfalls, landslides, and road slips, presenting challenges amidst rugged terrain, debris, and unique configurations.

 

 

Maccaferri showcased its commitment to safety and innovation through the implementation of a sustainable and state-of-the-art rockfall protection system. By December 2022, the installation of rockfall netting and slope protection was in full swing, marking a significant step toward a secure road network. This project serves as a testament to Maccaferri’s dedication to enhancing infrastructure safety and establishing a safer and more dependable national road system.

 

To ensure quality and efficiency, rigorous testing in the Philippines and Singapore validated the materials used. Innovative engineering techniques, tailored to the Philippines’ unique landscape, guaranteed resilient and sustainable road infrastructure. The construction unfolded in six phases, making progress toward the slated 2024 or 2025 completion. Each phase not only addressed the physical challenges but also symbolized a step closer to safer and more efficient transportation for the people of Tacloban.

 

As the project nears completion, Tacloban’s access roads symbolize progress and resilience. The collaborative success of Maccaferri Philippines, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and the entire team stands as a testament to achieving remarkable results through expertise, innovation, and dedication. The revitalized Tigbao – Sta. Fe – San Miguel Road isn’t just a road; it’s a legacy of transformation, safety, and a brighter future for Tacloban City.

 

• Project Proponent: Department of Public Works and Highways
• General Contractor: EZJones Construction, Inc.