President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) outlined various initiatives of “Build Better More“ program.
He emphaszied that the project aimed at improving physical connectivity, water resources, health, agriculture, digital connectivity, and energy in the country.
“The flagship projects cover investments in areas of physical connectivity, water resources, health, agriculture and digital connectivity and energy,“ he explained.
With a vision to enhance the nation's infrastructure and promote economic efficiency, he also announced new projects under the program.
“The underlying logic to our infrastructure development is economic efficiency,“ he pointed out.
“So, we will build better, and more. Our P8.3-trillion “Build Better More” Program is currently in progress and being vigorously implemented,” Marcos revealed.
Marcos provided an overview of the key projects that fall under the “Build Better More“:
- Luzon Spine Expressway Network Program: This aims to construct a 1,200-kilometer expressway network spanning Luzon. Once completed, this network will significantly reduce travel time from Ilocos to Bicol, reducing a grueling 20-hour journey to a more manageable 9 hours.
- Bridge Projects: A total of 12 bridges, measuring 90 kilometers in length, are set to be constructed. These bridges will strategically connect islands and areas previously separated by water, facilitating smoother transportation and accessibility.
- Road and Bridge Enhancements: The government has already constructed, maintained, and upgraded over 4,000 kilometers of roads and approximately 500 bridges throughout the nation as of June 2023.
He underscored the significance of these projects, not only in improving transportation but also in fostering economic growth and accessibility for all Filipinos.
Additionally, as part of the "Build Better More" program, he announced the inclusion of 123 new projects, adding to total of 194 projects.
