The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced on Saturday that the Philippine government has secured a $905.26-million official development assistance (ODA) loan from the Republic of Korea, facilitated through the Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM), to fund Phase 1, Stage 1 of the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network (LLRN) Project.
This flagship infrastructure project, part of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s “Build Better More” program, aims to improve transportation connectivity, alleviate traffic congestion, and boost economic development in the Calabarzon and National Capital Region. Construction is slated to begin this year, with the project expected to be completed by 2029.
The loan agreement was ceremonially exchanged on Friday at the Department of Finance (DOF) press briefing room in Manila. Key attendees included KEXIM Executive Director Um Sung-Yong, DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Korea’s Ministry of Economy and Finance First Vice Minister Kim Beom-Seok, and DOF Undersecretary Joven Balbosa.
In his remarks, Secretary Bonoan expressed gratitude to KEXIM for supporting the Philippines’ ambitions for infrastructure. He highlighted the transformative potential of the LLRN Project, emphasizing its role in enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities in the Luzon economic corridor, a critical region for national development and regional integration.
Addressing traffic and promoting growth
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain, who oversees the agency’s flagship infrastructure initiatives, underlined the project’s importance in easing traffic congestion, particularly along the South Luzon Expressway and surrounding areas.
“The road project along the shores of Laguna Lake will provide a safer, faster, and more convenient travel experience for motorists while spurring tourism and economic growth in Metro Manila, Laguna, Rizal, Cavite, and Batangas,” Sadain said.
The LLRN Project’s Phase 1, Stage 1 will include a 7.94-kilometer road featuring 6.81 kilometers of viaduct/bridge and 1.13 kilometers of embankment. The design also incorporates three interchanges and 1.92 kilometers of slip roads, ensuring better access and smoother traffic flow in the area.
Sadain described the initiative as a “major milestone” in the government’s long-term vision for a sustainable, resilient, and efficient road network. “This transformative project will benefit generations of Filipinos by improving connectivity and fostering economic growth in the region,” he said.
The DPWH Unified Project Management Office—Roads Management Cluster II will spearhead the project’s implementation, with assistance from Korean experts who will oversee construction supervision for Phase 1, Stage 1. This collaboration highlights the strong partnership between the Philippines and Korea in achieving infrastructure goals.
Impact on Calabarzon and beyond
The LLRN Project is poised to benefit the Calabarzon Region and neighboring areas significantly, driving economic productivity and regional integration. The improved road network is expected to ease logistics, attract investments, and enhance the quality of life for residents in one of the country’s most economically dynamic regions.
The loan agreement underscores both nations’ commitment to strengthening their partnership and achieving shared goals in sustainable development and infrastructure modernization.
