The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) announced that six infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs) were completed in 2024, while 13 are on track for completion within the year. These projects, part of the government’s Build Better More initiative, are expected to enhance connectivity, flood control, disaster resilience, and transportation efficiency across the country.
Among the major projects completed last year were the Arterial Road Bypass Project Phase III (Plaridel Bypass), the Flood Risk Improvement and Management Project for Cagayan De Oro River, and the Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation Measures in the Low-Lying Areas of Pampanga Bay. These projects aim to reduce flooding risks and improve climate resilience, particularly in highly vulnerable regions.
Infrastructure development also saw significant progress in transportation with the completion of the Panguil Bay Bridge, the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project (Phase V), and the Surallah-T’Boli-San Jose Road in South Cotabato. These developments are expected to ease congestion, facilitate the movement of goods and people, and contribute to regional economic growth.
Looking ahead to 2025, NEDA anticipates the completion of key projects that will further modernize the country’s infrastructure landscape. These include the Angat Water Transmission Improvement Project-Aqueduct No. 7, the C5 South Link Expressway Project, the Cagayan De Oro Coastal Road, and the Cagayan de Oro Diversion Road Extension. Expressway developments such as the Cavite Laguna Expressway and the Central Luzon Link Expressway Phase 1 are also expected to be operational within the year, improving travel efficiency and regional connectivity.
Other crucial infrastructure initiatives for completion include the China Aid Localized Project for the Davao River Bridge, the Health System-Enhancement to Address and Limit COVID-19 Project, and the Regional Fish Port Project for the Greater Capital Region. The Southeast Metro Manila Expressway, the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines, Water District Development Sector Projects, and the Second Additional Financing for the Philippine Rural Development Project are expected to bolster public health, transportation, and agricultural development.
NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon emphasized the role of infrastructure in driving economic recovery and sustained growth. Speaking at a briefing at the Philippine Statistics Authority office in Quezon City, she highlighted the importance of collaboration between the national government and local government units (LGUs) to ensure the timely and efficient completion of these projects.
“Infrastructure development remains a crucial driver of economic recovery and long-term growth,” Edillon stated. “It is essential to collaborate with LGUs to expedite the completion of these projects and ensure that these new infrastructures effectively promote growth within their respective areas.”
As the Philippine government continues prioritizing infrastructure investments, these projects are expected to boost economic activity, create jobs, and improve overall quality of life, reinforcing the country’s commitment to long-term development and resilience.