EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 621

: The minimum width of national roads was originally established at twenty (20) meters by Executive Order No. 113, series of 1955.
: The amendment was needed because the Ministry of Public Highways encountered difficulties in acquiring lots to provide the required twenty (20) meter width in highly urbanized areas, where residential and commercial buildings hindered road widening.
: The minimum width proposed for national roads in highly urbanized areas was reduced to fifteen (15) meters.
: The Minister of Public Highways has the discretion to reduce the minimum width of national roads to fifteen (15) meters in highly urbanized areas.
: The reduced width must be accompanied by suitable alterations in road design, including closed drainage, curbs, and gutters to maintain road functionality and safety.
: At least sixty (60) meters of right of way must be reserved for roads through unpatented public land.
: A right of way of at least one hundred twenty (120) meters must be reserved for roads constructed through naturally forested areas of aesthetic or scientific value.
: Concerns included the reluctance of property owners to sell portions of their lots due to lack of alternative housing and sentimental value of inherited houses, as well as the dislocation of residents.
: The amendment took effect immediately upon its signing on September 18, 1980.