MANILA — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has ordered the immediate rehabilitation of sections of the Maharlika Highway in various parts of the country, particularly in Eastern Visayas and Bicol, following repeated complaints about poor road conditions, potholes, and safety hazards.
DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan issued the directive on January 12, 2026, instructing regional directors and district engineers to prioritize repairs, repaving, and drainage improvements along the national highway. The order comes amid growing public frustration over the road’s deteriorating state, which has caused numerous accidents and economic losses for commuters and cargo transport.
Key Areas Targeted for Immediate Rehab
- Eastern Samar — Catarman to Borongan section (heavily damaged by typhoons and heavy traffic)
- Northern Samar — Allen to Catarman stretch
- Sorsogon — Sorsogon City to Bulan segment
- Leyte — Tacloban to Ormoc corridor
- Other priority sections — Selected portions in Quezon, Camarines Sur, and Davao Region
Scope of Works
- Asphalt overlay and road resurfacing
- Drainage system repairs and unclogging
- Shoulder and road widening in critical areas
- Installation of road signs, reflectors, and guardrails
DPWH emphasized that funds for the rehabilitation will be sourced from the 2026 infrastructure budget and Quick Response Fund allocations. The department assured the public that the works will be carried out in phases to minimize traffic disruption, with night-time or off-peak scheduling where possible.
The Maharlika Highway, the longest national road in the Philippines (stretching from Laoag, Ilocos Norte to Davao City), serves as a vital lifeline for inter-island trade and travel, but has long been criticized for poor maintenance despite billions in allocations over the years.
The DPWH order is seen as a response to mounting pressure from lawmakers, transport groups, and the public, especially after recent viral videos and complaints highlighted dangerous road conditions.
Here are some visuals showing the current state of affected sections and ongoing roadworks in Eastern Visayas and Bicol.
Stay safe on the roads — the rehab is underway, but motorists should still exercise caution in damaged areas.