By Joseph Bernard A. Marzan
The regional director of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Region 6, has requested public patience regarding delays at the Ungka Flyover.
On Tuesday, May 7, Engr. Sanny Boy Oropel announced that the contract for Phase 1 of the flyover’s rectification works has been extended for an additional 120 days.
Speaking to Daily Guardian, Oropel said that the current progress of the works stands at approximately 47 percent, with the work being performed by Davao City-based Monolithic Construction & Concrete Products, Inc., under a contract priced at ₱95.95 million.
The contract, initiated on January 5, 2024, involves jet grouting across 2,352 linear meters on multiple piers, at a cost of P38,153.28 per linear meter.
The need for the extension stems partly from the flyover remaining open to limited vehicular traffic during peak hours, which has complicated construction efforts.
“The borehole operation and construction methodology we are applying involves drilling boreholes from 0 to 6 meters and then performing jet grouting. However, maintaining traffic flow has prevented us from performing these tasks as efficiently as possible,” Oropel explained.
He further detailed that the purpose of the jet grouting is to solidify soft formations to achieve high n-values and develop hard strata around and beneath the bored pile, a process hindered by ongoing traffic.
Although the project billboard indicates that Phase 1 was initially set to conclude on May 6, Oropel declined to specify when the 120-day extension officially started.
Despite suggestions to temporarily close the structure to expedite the jet grouting process, Oropel dismissed the idea, citing concerns over potential public backlash due to increased traffic disruptions.
“What we are asking from the public is even the slightest of understanding because we cannot work extensively. Our equipment underneath may be affected,” he noted.
Due to these complications, Phase 2 of the project, valued at P193 million, has been indefinitely postponed.
A Notice of Postponement was issued on April 22 and posted on the DPWH’s website on April 29.
Phase 2 plans include an additional 2,416 linear meters of jet grouting and extensive structural work involving the removal of obstructions, excavation, shoring, cribbing, bored pile capping, column jacketing, and the installation of bracings and prestressed structural concrete girders.
