The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has ordered an immediate halt to all ongoing repair projects along major segments of the Maharlika Highway to make way for a massive, full-scale rehabilitation of the nation’s primary road artery.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon announced the suspension during a press conference Friday evening, specifically targeting roadworks in the provinces of Quezon and Camarines Sur.
The freeze applies to all segments of the highway currently funded under the district level of the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2026.
Dizon explained that the decision follows a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to shift from piecemeal repairs to a comprehensive reconstruction plan.
“We have put the implementation on hold because we want to consolidate the funding,” Dizon said.
“The President has committed to pouring a huge amount of funds into this project this year and next year to ensure the highway is fixed properly and permanently.”
The Maharlika Highway, also known as the Pan-Philippine Highway, serves as the country’s logistical backbone, stretching across Luzon,
Visayas, and Mindanao.
Over the years, the road has been plagued by recurring damage and inconsistent repair quality.
By consolidating the budget, the DPWH aims to elevate the project’s standards. Dizon noted that the government intends to open the bidding process to major international firms alongside large-scale domestic contractors.
“We want big contractors to participate, or even open it to foreign contractors, even if it is a locally funded project,” Dizon added.
“If we are going to fix Maharlika, this is the way to do it—planning it well and ensuring high-level implementation.”
The DPWH is currently finalizing the comprehensive plan for the “full rehab,” which is expected to begin once the new bidding and consolidation process is complete.
