COMPOSTELA, Cebu — Governor Pamela Baricuatro and Mayor Felijur Quiño officially opened the Dapdap-Mulao Diversion Road on August 18, 2026, restoring vital access for three upland communities. The project brings new hope to hundreds of families who were isolated after floodwaters destroyed the old route.
A New Lifeline for Mountain Communities
The 250-meter diversion road reconnects Barangays Dapdap, Mulao, and Tag-ube to the town center and essential services. More than 600 households in Dapdap alone were severely affected when Typhoon Tino's floodwaters washed away the previous provincial road. The new route provides a safe, passable alternative for residents and travelers alike.
Provincial Engineer Hector Jamora confirmed that the groundworks have been completed to make the bypass immediately usable. The road will undergo full concrete paving once soil compaction and stabilization settle. This phased approach ensures that the community gains access quickly while ensuring long-term durability.
A Generous Act of Stewardship
The construction of the diversion road was made possible through the generosity of land donor Helga Natad-Canen and her siblings. They willingly allowed the provincial government to use their property for the public's benefit. Natad-Canen's selfless act reflects the spirit of community and shared responsibility.
Barangay Captain Joseph Vasquez expressed relief, noting that residents no longer have to endure the difficult, cut-off route. The new road shortens travel time and provides a safer path for students, workers, and farmers. It is a significant improvement that will be felt daily by the entire community.
A New Era for Provincial Road Maintenance
During the opening, Governor Baricuatro announced the creation of a provincial road task force. This dedicated team will focus on identifying and addressing road problems across Cebu. Mayors will be included as members, recognizing their on-the-ground knowledge of local infrastructure needs.
The governor also revealed a public reporting hotline, humorously named the "Libaong Hotline." Residents can directly report potholes and damaged roads to the Capitol for prompt action. The task force will receive its own budget starting next year, signaling a serious commitment to infrastructure improvement.
Unlocking Tourism Potential in Compostela
The restored road also opens doors to the region's growing eco-tourism potential. Compostela is home to natural attractions like the Cascades Nature Park and the Mulao–Lusaran Mountain Trails. Improved accessibility encourages more visitors to explore these scenic destinations.
The mountain trails are popular for trail running, mountain biking, and dirt biking. With better road access, these routes become more inviting to adventure enthusiasts. The diversion road is not just about connectivity; it is about unlocking economic opportunities through tourism and local enterprise.
A Promise of Continued Progress
The opening of the Dapdap-Mulao Diversion Road is a testament to responsive governance. It shows that the provincial government is listening to the needs of its constituents, especially those in remote areas. The dual announcement of the road task force and hotline reinforces this commitment.
For the residents of Compostela, the new road is more than just infrastructure; it is a symbol of resilience and recovery. It restores their connection to the wider community and paves the way for a brighter, more accessible future.
