Pampanga's infrastructure woes persist as key projects stall in Angeles and Clark
Pampanga Governor 'Nanay' Baby Pineda recently marked her 75th birthday with a well-attended celebration. Meanwhile, infrastructure issues in Angeles and Clark Freeport continue to draw attention, with stalled projects and rising concerns over road conditions.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has been urged to speed up the construction of drainage canals along main highways in Angeles. These canals are seen as crucial for public safety, especially during heavy rains. Yet progress remains slow, mirroring delays in other key projects.
An overpass along MacArthur Highway has seen construction halt entirely. Nearby, the Bayanihan Park development by the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has faced months of delays. The CDC had earlier announced plans to resurface the entire stretch of M.A. Roxas Highway with asphalt for smoother travel, but work has yet to begin.
Under the leadership of Arthur Tugade, the CDC has pushed infrastructure projects in Clark Freeport at a faster pace than before. Compared to the slower, budget-limited approach of former heads José 'Ping' De Jesús and Noel Manankil, current efforts have cut completion times by up to 40% since 2022. Despite this, the railway link between Angeles and Clark Freeport remains behind schedule.
Elsewhere, toll fees on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) have risen, adding to frustrations over poorly maintained roads. Many motorists report rough conditions on major routes, including sections of NLEX. The unresolved murder of Tess Mamac also lingers, with the prime suspect still at large.
The region faces a mix of stalled projects, rising costs, and safety concerns. While some infrastructure work has accelerated under new leadership, key developments like the Angeles-Clark railway and Bayanihan Park remain unfinished. Authorities continue to address both construction delays and unresolved cases in the area.
