The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI, led by Regional Director Rachel Nufable, met with representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to strengthen the implementation of the Roads Leveraging Linkages for Industry and Trade (ROLL IT) Program.
The meeting, held at the DTI Region VI Regional Office in Iloilo City, reaffirmed both agencies’ commitment to completing ongoing projects from 2018 to 2024. A total of PHP 130 million has been allocated for nine road infrastructure projects across Western Visayas.
The ROLL IT Program, established through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DTI and DPWH, aims to improve road connectivity to support key industries and economic zones.
Under the program, DPWH is responsible for identifying existing roads and networks that need upgrades to enhance access to priority industries. Meanwhile, DTI determines which industries should be prioritized for support.
Both agencies also agreed to conduct onsite joint validations of ongoing projects to assess progress and address any necessary adjustments.
Regional Director Nufable emphasized the importance of prioritizing areas with Shared Service Facilities (SSF) that require road improvements. Enhancing infrastructure in these locations is expected to drive investments and economic activities in the region.
Launched in 2016, the ROLL IT Program is a strategic initiative supporting industrial and regional development by improving road networks that connect production areas to markets.
With DTI and DPWH strengthening their collaboration, the program continues to promote inclusive growth by facilitating industrial dispersal, job creation, and economic opportunities across Western Visayas.
