The use of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottle waste as an additive to enhance stability and extend the lifespan of asphalt-paved national roads has been approved by the Department of Public Works and Highways.
“Turning waste into valuable resource for building better and more roads is the future of public infrastructure development in the country,” DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said in a statement May 19, adding this is in line with the government’s commitment “to building resilient and sustainable infrastructure.”
Last year, Bonoan signed Department Order 139-2024 on the use of recycled materials, specifically low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic bags, in road constructions.
Building on this initiative of using LDPE plastic bag waste, he signed another order, this time on the use of PET plastic bottle waste in future road projects.
“The public can expect more of these policies as we vow to continue to fund for these construction innovations,” Bonoan said.
The department also held consultations nationwide, aimed at strengthening regional collaboration and improving national road maintenance practices.
“Given the evolving challenges brought about by regional conditions and urban growth, it is crucial to update our maintenance standards to ensure the manual effectively addresses current needs and future demands,” director Gene Ryan Altea of the DPWH Bureau of Maintenance said in a statement.
With strong participation from regional and district maintenance engineers, these consultations are expected to significantly improve the clarity, practicality, and effectiveness of the revised highway maintenance manual for engineering professionals and field personnel across the country, the DPWH said. ||
