Quezon-Bicol expressway mulled

The Quezon to Bicol region expressway project, aimed at reducing travel time from Manila is currently being studied and assessed, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said.

The Quezon-Bicol Expressway (QBEx) is expected to be constructed from 2022 to 2026, even as a feasibility study is now underway.

According to the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Director Alex Bote, the study should be undertaken to ensure timely implementation of the project.

The feasibility study, Bote said, will be conducted by the agency’s Planning Service-Project Preparation Division.

“By the fourth quarter this year, we plan to begin the Tender Process of QBEx, then by fourth quarter of 2019 the Detailed Engineering Design, followed by Right-of-way Acquisition starting fourth quarter of 2020 so we will be able to proceed with the construction by first quarter of 2022,” said Bote.

QBEx Project will be implemented under PPP program of the DPWH.

QBEX has an estimated length of about 180 kilometers from Pagbilao, Quezon to the existing Maharlika Highway in San Fernando, Camarines Sur.

The project cost, meanwhile will be determined upon completion of the feasibilty study.