The importance of the DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) to Filipinos cannot be overstated. In short, it is a service organization of the Philippine Government responsible for various tasks related to planning, designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining public infrastructures such as roads, bridges, and highways.
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The DPWH is one of the leading local government agencies in the Philippines. From roads and expressways to bridges, flood control dams, and water supply facilities, there are a lot of noble tasks assigned to this department. You may be wondering what the DPWH does or how their tasks affect your life. Let’s find out.
What is the Meaning of DPWH?
DPWH stands for Department of Public Works and Highways in the Philippines.
What is the Purpose of DPWH?
The DPWH is the Philippine government agency that is responsible for the construction, maintenance, and development of public works projects all throughout the nation. The department was created in 1946 through the merger of two agencies — the Bureau of Public Works and Bureau of Roads, and its mission today, as back then, is to assist all levels of Philippine society through its services and programs.
Our economy is heavily dependent on infrastructure. We all know that, but many don’t really understand why it is so important. Infrastructure (public and private) allows the country to develop and grow, and allows our businesses to grow as well. It can be easy for people living in metropolitan areas to forget about the importance of public works. But remember — a country’s cities are only built because of the public works projects leading up to it and the ones that keep it functioning.
Brief History
The Department of Public Works and Construction is regarded as the oldest government agency in the Philippines. It was established during the Spanish colonial era. The initial structure was constructed using forced labor. Fortresses were established through improved trails and communication lines.
As part of its expansion program, Spain used public works construction as a means of attracting more people. In 1867, the King of Spain designated the governor general of Spain as the head of the Public Works Department.
In 1868, two government agencies were merged to form the Department of Public Works and Construction. These included the Obras Publicas and the Communications and Transportation departments.
The department underwent various changes during its evolution. These included the establishment of new administrative structures and the reorganization of its responsibilities.
After a long process, the agency was finally renamed in 1987 following Executive Order 124. It now has five (5) bureaus and six (6) services, and it has over 20 regional offices and over a hundred engineering offices.
Functions and Responsibilities of DPWH
The Department of Public Works and Construction (DPWH) is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of various infrastructure projects, such as national highways and flood control facilities.
One of the government’s departments that is responsible for carrying out major infrastructure projects is the Department of Public Works and Highways. It is required to plan and implement various public works projects, such as the construction of national roads and bridges. It is also responsible for the maintenance and design of flood control systems.
The Public Works and Highways Department is responsible for overseeing the development of new technology and the continuous improvement of the country’s infrastructure facilities. This department is also tasked with ensuring that the projects are carried out in a safe and efficient manner.
The department is also responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of various infrastructure projects, such as the national highways and flood control systems.
By 2030, the Department of Public Works and Highways is expected to be an efficient and effective agency that can improve the lives of the people of the country through the development of quality infrastructure.
The goal of the Public Works and Highways Department is to provide the best possible services to the people of the country through the development of quality infrastructure.
Laws enacted by the DPWH
Batas Pambansa Bilang 344 (Accessibility Law) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations
In order to promote the realization of the rights of disabled persons to participate fully in society and the development of the societies in which they live and the enjoyment of opportunities available to other citizens, no license or permit for the construction, repair, or renovation of public and private buildings for public use, education institutions, airports, sports and recreation centers or complexes, shopping centers, or establishments will be granted or issued unless the owner or operator thereof installs and incorporates in such building, establishment, institution, or public utility architectural facilities or structural features that reasonably enhance the mobility of disabled persons such as sidewalks, ramps, railings, etc.
Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB) Resolution NO. 08-2006 dated January 20, 2006
Approving the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Procurement Manuals for use by the DPWH and all its attached bureaus and agencies in all its locally-funded projects.
The GPPB Resolution No. 08-2006 sets the procurement procedures for all locally-funded projects of the DPWH and its attached bureaus and agencies, including but not limited to: 1) General Construction Works 2) Road Construction 3) Bridge Construction 4) Water Supplies 5) Sanitary Systems 6) Sewerage Systems 7) Irrigation Projects 8) Municipal Buildings 9) Public Highways 10) Flood Control Projects 11) Others.
Implementing Rules and Regulations for Republic Act No. 10752, An Act Facilitating the Acquisition of the Right-of-Way, Site or Location for National Government Infrastructure Projects
The purpose of this act is to facilitate the acquisition of the right-of-way, site or location for national government infrastructure projects, thereby promoting the development of a modern and efficient public infrastructure system to accelerate socio-economic growth, improve productivity and increase competitiveness.
Implementing Rules and Regulations of the National Building Code of the Philippines (PD1096)
The National Building Code of the Philippines (PD 1096) is the legal basis for all construction activities in the Philippines. It prescribes and regulates construction materials, design, structural stability and safety, fire protection and life safety aspects of buildings and other structures.
Mayor’s Permit as an Eligibility Requirement for the Procurement of Consulting Services
This applies to the Design, Construction and Maintenance of Public Infrastructure Projects. The city government recognizes that consultants may be required for the design, construction, and maintenance of public infrastructure projects. The use of consultants is necessary to ensure compliance with national standards and regulations as well as to prevent violations from being committed.
National Building Code of the Philippines
The National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP) is a set of rules and regulations governing the design, construction, maintenance and demolition or destruction of buildings. The NBCP provides for uniformity in building practices throughout the country by defining minimum standards for structural safety, sanitation and health protection.
Philippine Green Building Code
The Philippine Green Building Code (PGBC) is a set of rules and regulations that promote sustainable building practices. It provides for sustainability in the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of buildings to reduce the adverse impact of human activities on the environment.
The Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act)
The Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act) is the official document governing all government procurement activities in the Philippines. It aims to promote transparency, efficiency and accountability in public procurement by providing uniformity in implementing all policies, rules and regulations governing government purchases from suppliers, contractors and service providers.
What is the role of DPWH in disaster prevention and mitigation?
The DPWH-National Capital Region will serve as the lead agency in the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council Engineering, Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Response Sector which is responsible in restoring and clearing vital access roads and bridges and reconstructing or rehabilitating damaged infrastructure facilities in the aftermath of a disaster. They will also assist the local government units (LGUs) and other agencies in mitigating the impact of disasters and ensuring that Metro Manila is more resilient against future calamities.
What is the role of DPWH in its thematic area during a natural disaster?
The main role of the Department of Public Works and Construction (DPWH) is to provide necessary infrastructure to the country’s 7,107 islands. Due to the country’s geographical location and the weather conditions, various water-related disasters have affected the country.
What department of our government is responsible for disaster rehabilitation and recovery?
The DRRM Act provides that the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is the lead agency for the recovery efforts. It is also mandated to coordinate the activities of various government agencies and non-government organizations.
List of Programs and Services of DPWH
The Department of Public Works and Highways is an important part of government that directly touch the lives of Filipinos. The same way you enjoy improved roads, bridges, and airports today, a lot of it was due to the hard work of DPWH personnel. This guide below will give you a basic overview of what you need to know about DPWH and what services and programs it offers.
– SERVICES –
Stakeholders Relations Service (SRS)
The SRS is the focal point for all stakeholders of DPWH. It provides a single window service to facilitate interaction between the agency and its clients, partners and other government agencies. The SRS facilitates information flow and coordination among stakeholders in order to provide efficient delivery of public projects.
Human Resource and Administrative Service (HRAS)
The HRAS is the chief administrative service of DPWH that provides efficient, effective and responsive human resource management services to meet the agency’s personnel requirements. It manages manpower planning and deployment; recruitment, selection, promotion and career development; compensation and benefits administration; training programs; performance-based rewards system; retirement benefits computation and payment; personnel files management; job safety program implementation.
Bureau of Research and Standards (BRS)
The BRS is the chief research and standards body of DPWH that provides technical support to development projects, in compliance with the agency’s engineering standards. It also conducts researches on various aspects of road engineering; develops and disseminates knowledge-based materials on roads and bridges; provides technical assistance to local government units (LGUs) in the implementation of their road right-of-way (RROW) programs; designs, implements and evaluates road projects nationwide through its regional offices.
Procurement Service (PrS)
The PrS is responsible for the procurement of goods and services needed by DPWH. It ensures that the agency gets competitively-priced, quality products and services from suppliers; administers contracts and awards payments to contractors; monitors project implementation; and conducts post-audit of completed projects.
DPWH Regional Offices (RO)
The DPWH ROs are the frontline of DPWH’s technical and administrative services. They monitor and supervise projects in their respective regions; provide technical assistance to LGUs in the implementation of their RROW programs; and assist local government units (LGUs) with the preparation, processing, approval and release of all documents related to road right-of-way (RROW) transactions.
DPWH District Engineering Offices (DEO)
The DPWH DEOs are the frontline of DPWH’s technical and administrative services. They monitor and supervise projects in their respective districts; provide technical assistance to LGUs in implementing their RROW programs; and assist local government units (LGUs) with the preparation, processing, approval and release of all documents related to road right-of-way (RROW) transactions.
Directory of Officials
DPWH’s Directory of Officials is a database that contains the contact information, designation, and office address of all DPWH officials. It also includes their email addresses, and telephone and fax numbers where available.
Road building and maintenance
This is the responsibility of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which is in charge of implementing various projects that improve, repair and maintain the country’s road network. These include roads connecting rural areas to urban centers, as well as highways that connect major cities.
Bridge construction and maintenance
The DPWH also manages the construction and maintenance of bridges. The department is responsible for all national bridges and those in Metro Manila that are classified as “major” or “minor”. It also handles the repair and maintenance of these structures, both during and after their construction.
Flood control and drainage
The DPWH is also in charge of flood control and drainage projects. It builds canals, dams and other structures that help divert floodwaters away from populated areas during heavy rains. The department also maintains these facilities to ensure they function properly.
Building of government facilities such as public schools, hospitals and sports facilities
The DPWH is also in charge of building government infrastructures such as public schools, hospitals and sports facilities. It constructs these facilities with the help of private contractors. The department also maintains them once they are up and running.
Construction of National Government Centers in the provinces
The DPWH is also tasked with constructing National Government Centers in the provinces. These centers, which are also known as government offices or provincial capitol buildings, house government offices such as those of local officials (e.g., governor and vice governor) and senior government officials (e.g., Philippine president).
Maintenance of roads in military camps, public cemeteries, major national parks, barangay road networks and provincial capitol complex.
The DPWH also maintains the roads within these areas to ensure that they are properly maintained. Maintenance of provincial capitol complex The DPWH is also tasked with maintaining the provincial capitol complex (also known as a government center), which houses offices for local officials such as governors and vice governors.
Preparation of project feasibility studies and cost estimates
DPWH engineers and technical staff are responsible for preparing project feasibility studies and cost estimates. This is important because it helps determine how much money will be needed to complete a particular project. The DPWH uses this information to apply for funding from the government or private sector in order to begin construction.
Regulation of quality materials used in the construction and maintenance of public works projects
The DPWH is responsible for regulating the quality of materials used in public works projects. This helps ensure that infrastructure projects are built with durable, high-quality materials so they can withstand the test of time. The agency also ensures that construction companies use only materials approved by the government and comply with all legal requirements related to their use.
Management of non-performing assets
The DPWH is responsible for managing the government’s non-performing assets, or NPAs. These are infrastructure projects that were built with public funds but which have not been used because they are no longer useful or are not being maintained properly.
Flood control and drainage system
The DPWH manages the government’s flood control and drainage system. This includes large dams, canals and other structures that prevent flood damage and keep water flowing freely in rivers, so they are not clogged with debris.
– PROGRAMS –
Infrastructures
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is the lead agency for the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure in the Philippines. It is responsible for the planning, design, construction and maintenance of national roads, bridges, flood control systems and other related projects.
Infra Statistics
The department is currently implementing a total of 2,668 projects worth P1.4 trillion. These projects include: 1,343 projects for flood control and drainage works; 321 projects for the construction of bridges; 329 projects for road network development; and 494 projects for maintenance services.
GIS Web Applications
The department uses GIS web applications to monitor and manage the projects in the country. These include:
-Project Management System (PMS) – This is a database system used by DPWH to manage its projects. It provides information on project status, budget and cost reports.
-Integrated Land Information System or ILIS – This is a mapping application that allows users to view land ownership data and related documents such as survey permits and land titles.
-Geographic Information System or GIS – This is a mapping application that uses spatial data to produce maps, charts, and other visual representations.
-Web Mapping Application (WMA) – This is an online map-based application that allows users to view specific areas of interest and interact with their environment. It also has tools such as aerial photos, elevation profiles and satellite imagery.
Public- Private Partnerships
-The public-private partnership (PPP) model is a way of financing, delivering and managing infrastructure projects. It involves the creation of a separate legal entity to manage the project, usually in conjunction with government funding. PPPs are often used in developing countries where governments lack the resources to fund large infrastructure projects.
National Highways Development Project
The Philippine government has embarked on a major highway expansion program. The objective is to address the country’s growing traffic congestion and ensure that all areas are connected with modern roads. The DPWH has identified 1,964 kilometers of existing national roads and highways to be converted into expressways. Other projects include the construction of new roads that will link major urban centers in the country, as well as bridges and flyovers.
Flood Risk Management Project
The DPWH is also responsible for managing the country’s flood risk management program. The agency plans to construct flood control infrastructure in high-risk areas and relocate residents living in low-lying areas prone to flooding. It also aims to improve drainage systems and enhance existing waterways.
North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) – Harbor Link Segment 10
The NLEX-Harbor Link Segment 10 is a 2.5-kilometer expressway project that will connect the NLEX to the Manila North Harbor. It will also connect Manila with Metro Manila and other provinces in northern Luzon. The project will feature five interchanges, including one exit to the Port of Manila and four entrances to different industrial areas in Bulacan province. The project is estimated to cost $717 million or Php 3.5 billion and is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2023.
NLEX-South Luzon Expressway Connector Road Project (NSCR)
The elevated four-lane NLEX toll road extension from C3 Road in Caloocan City to the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Sta. Mesa in Manila will connect to the Skyway Stage 3 and the PNR rail track. It also includes two interchanges. The project is divided into two sections: one each in Caloocan and Manila.
The first section, which is the Caloocan section, includes a three-lane bridge with a six-meter width and a 1.3-kilometer elevated toll road extension to connect C3 Road in Caloocan City to the Skyway Stage 3. The project also includes an interchange at EDSA near Bagong Ilog. The second section is located in Sta. Mesa, Manila where it will have an interchange with PNR rail tracks and another one with NLEX via an overpass structure.
Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 Construction Project
The Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 project involves the construction of an elevated highway from the city of Makati to the North Luzon Expressway in Quezon City. It has a length of approximately 18.30 kilometers. Two-way traffic will be allowed in both directions from Buendia to the junction of A. Bonifacio in Quezon City. The elevated roadway structure will also link the project to the NLEX-LEXS Connector Road project in the area.
It will also provide an alternative route for motorists traveling towards the north of Metro Manila. This is to avoid heavy traffic along EDSA and C-5 Road, as well as provide access to areas that are not accessible by land vehicles. The project is expected to be completed by 2020.
Infrastructure Preparation and Innovation Facility (IPIF)
The IPIF aims to accelerate the construction of key infrastructure projects in the Philippines by providing financial assistance to contractors who carry out preparatory works. This includes road widening, land acquisition and demolition activities. The government will pay up to 70% of the total cost for these preparatory works, while the contractor will shoulder 30%. So far, this facility has helped build several roads and bridges in Metro Manila such as NLEX-SLEX Connector Road Phase 2 and EDSA-Mindanao Avenue Flyover Project.
Video: DPWH COMPLETES 1,321 PROJECTS IN CENTRAL LUZON FOR 2021 to 2022
Curious to know what the government has been doing to improve the country’s infrastructures through its lead agency for public works and development, the DPWH? Find out in the video above.
In line with the vision of the Duterte administration to build a “Golden Age of Infrastructure” in the Philippines, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed 1,321 projects in Central Luzon for 2021 to 2022 and is set to start work on another 1,086 projects worth P2.9 billion in 2020. This will further improve the mobility of people and goods in the region.
In an infographic released by DPWH Secretary Mark Villar, DPWH has completed 868 projects worth P4.3 billion since July 2018 up to March 2019. These projects included road widening and rehabilitation works such as those along national roads such as NLEX Segment 10 from Mabalacat City Road to Alabang Town Center (ATC) Metro Manila; NLEX Segment 2 from Commonwealth Avenue going to Bulacan; NLEX Segment 11 from North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Taguig City going to Las Pinas; and Daang Maharlika Highway Phase 2 Bocaue Cavite which connects Metro Manila to Cavite Province.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the DPWH do?
The Department of Public Works and Construction (DPWH) is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of various public works, such as the national highways and flood control systems.
2. What is build build build program in the Philippines?
The Build Build Build (BBB) Program was launched in 2017 as part of the Duterte administration’s infrastructure development initiative. It aims to stimulate the country’s economic growth by improving the quality of its infrastructure.
3. What is the role of DPWH in disaster risk reduction?
The Department of Public Works and Construction (DPWH) is responsible for providing essential infrastructure to the country’s 7,107 islands. Due to the weather conditions and geographical factors that affect the development of the country, various water-related disasters have been known to occur.
4. What are the projects that the DPWH oversees?
The DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) oversees construction and maintenance of national infrastructure. This includes, among other things:
- Road Maintenance
- Building Construction
- Flood Control
- Bridge Construction
- Road Design
- Port Administration and Management
- Disaster Response
- Disaster Recovery
5. How many DPWH district engineering offices (DEOs) are there?
There are 83 DPWH district engineering offices (DEOs) spread all over the country. The DEOs are headed by a chief district engineer (CDE).
The 83 DEOs are composed of 1 district engineering office in the National Capital Region and 82 district engineering offices in other regions.
6. What’s the schedule for public biddings?
It depends on the project and the department handling it. In general, though, a public bidding will be advertised in newspapers at least two (2) weeks before the actual bidding, and interested parties can ask for pre-bidding in-person meetings to get more information about the project.
7. How can I get a copy of the plans, specifications and bid bulletin?
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is tasked to develop projects for the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges and other types of infrastructure. It takes a lot of research, coordination and effort to come up with the plans for a new structure. To make sure that all the details are considered, the government has spent a lot of time and money making sure that all the necessary documentation are available to anyone who wants copies. The first place most people go to get their hands on these documents is at their local Public Work’s office.
8. Who heads the DPWH?
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is in charge of the construction and maintenance of the more than 4,000 kilometers of national roads in the Philippines, as well as the clearing of national roads during stormy seasons. The DPWH is also in charge of the design and construction of major bridges, flood control dams, irrigation systems, and all other public works projects. Lastly, it is responsible for enforcing all rules regarding land surveying and mapping.
A secretary heads the DPWH. He is appointed by the president on recommendations from Congress.
9. What are the major projects of the DPWH?
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is responsible for the planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of all national roads and bridges, flood control, river transportation system and ports. They work to ensure that the Philippines’ infrastructure allows the free flow of commerce and travel. The Department uses various programs to help improve access to information for the public.
10. How many regions does DPWH have?
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has 18 regions for the Philippines, each with its own Regional Director who is responsible for the activities of DPWH within their jurisdiction. The regions were formed in 1966, when then President Ferdinand Marcos signed Republic Act No. 4221, which was re-designated as Section 92 of Executive Order No. 77. The regions are composed of five provinces each, except for Region IV-B (MIMAROPA), which has six provinces.
11. What are the NEDA-approved infrastructure projects of DPWH?
The NEDA-approved projects of the DPWH are as follows:
- Road networks
- Bridges
- Coastal and river control structures
- Airport runways and terminals
- Ports and harbor facilities
- Water supply systems
- Flood control works and drainage systems
12. Where can I find a list of DPWH projects?
Each of the Departments within the DPWH has its own set of projects, with a variety of information available on them. Depending on your query, you can choose to start in the Department’s website, or if you’re looking for more specific information, you can also go to their individual pages on the DPWH website.
13. How is a project requested from the DPWH?
LGUs can ask for different kinds of projects or services to be made available in their area. First, they gather data on what needs to be done and who would benefit from the project. They collect information on current needs, such as:
-identifying the problems in the area (e.g., roads that are impassable during rainy season)
-Conducting surveys about the affected beneficiaries/residents (e.g., number of households affected, number of children going to school, number of people with jobs)
-Collecting other relevant information (e.g., soil type, land use maps)
Second, they need to assemble all the data collected into a single document using simple tables and diagrams. This document will become important when asking for help from the agency concerned. Third, decide which government agency will be appropriate for your request. This may depend on whose jurisdiction your community falls under and what kind of project you want them to do. The Philippine Statistics Agency (PSA) is an example of a government agency that can help with data collection and analysis. Other agencies may be more familiar with an LGU’s needs and have the resources available to support them.
Summary
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is one of the most important departments in the Philippines. It is responsible for building, maintaining, and repairing public infrastructure like roads, bridges, and airports.
The DPWH’s work is crucial to the country’s development, as it helps improve the lives of Filipinos by providing them with better transportation facilities and access to jobs.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is the agency in charge of building and maintaining the country’s infrastructure. It also provides assistance to OFWs who find themselves in need of emergency help after an accident or natural disaster.
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Contact Information
Address: Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, N.C.T. of Manila, Philippines
Telephone Number: Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, N.C.T. of Manila, Philippines
Website: www.dpwh.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/dpwhph
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