Sandro Marcos on delayed Ilocos Norte bridge projects: ‘Nothing ghostly’

SAN ILDEFONSO, Ilocos Sur— House Majority Floor Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos pushed back on Friday against allegations that multiple delayed infrastructure projects in his home province are “ghost projects,” speaking from San Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur.

“There is nothing ghostly about this—you can literally see it,” remarked Ilocos Norte First District Representative Marcos while inspecting the Loing-Mangitayag Bridge alongside Public Works Secretary Vince Dixon.

The lawmaker stressed that some of the projects are being completed in phases and are meeting deadlines.

Ilocos Norte bridges

The inspection also covered the Cabaroan-Libnaoan Bridge and Estancia Bridge, three major infrastructure projects seen to improve connectivity among agricultural communities in the town of Piddig.

The presidential son said the national government remains committed to completing the bridge projects, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s directive to prioritize ongoing, underfunded, and delayed infrastructure works before approving new projects nationwide.

Dizon said: “Once these projects are completed, we show our fellow Filipinos that we are serious and that public funds are spent for the right projects.”

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According to the Department of Public Works and Highways, the bridges will provide safer and more reliable access for residents and farmers in Barangays Loing, Bimmanga, Mangitayag, and Tonoton, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall and river overflows.

Once completed, the projects are expected to facilitate the transport of agricultural produce, improve mobility, and reduce travel risks for communities that are often isolated during adverse weather conditions.

During the inspection, Marcos and Dizon also discussed the ongoing rehabilitation and upgrading of the Patapat Viaduct in the town of Pagudpud. Officials said the project is targeted for completion before the end of the Marcos administration. Kenneth P. Tabin/Contributor/coa

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