Iba-Tarlac road now in offing

Zambales -- A road network that would liberate Zambales from isolation from the rest of Central Luzon is now ready for construction.

The Iba-Tarlac Road starts from the Olongapo-Bugallon road in Botolan and connects to Capas at the foot of the Baracbac Bridge. It has a total length of 89 kilometers. The 52 kilometers portion is in Zambales while the remaining 39 kilometers belong to Tarlac.

This road will also link Zambales to Pampanga, Nueva Ecija and Aurora. It will serve as the secondary route to both Subic and Clark when one comes from the north. It will also be an alternative route to the already vulnerable and much traversed Gapan-San Fernando-Olongapo intersection.

Zambales District Engineer Domingo Mariano said the road network project also entails the construction of six concrete bridges with a total length of 2.5 kilometers. Needed to complete these bridges is P774 million. The DPWH is awaiting the release of funds for the construction of these bridges.

Initially, some P195 million has been released for the construction of the roads. Total amount needed for the completion of the roads is P696 million.

There is now a 6 kilometer gravel road. Also completed is an 8 kilometer concrete road. To be opened for construction is a 34 kilometer road network.

Engr. Domingo added that both Zambales and Tarlac have been clamoring for the completion of this link since it will reduce travel time to an hour and contribute to the economic growth of both provinces. (by Rebecca Grace S. David - PIA)