Law Summary

1. Overview of the Act

• Legal Principle: This Act mandates the full rehabilitation and ongoing maintenance of Kennon Road, a crucial roadway in the Philippines.
• Authority: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is designated as the lead agency for these activities.

2. Full Rehabilitation of Kennon Road

• Provision: The DPWH is tasked with undertaking the full rehabilitation of the 33.534-kilometer stretch of Kennon Road, from Rosario, La Union to Baguio City.
• Key Requirements:
  • Conduct a thorough evaluation of the current condition of the road.
  • Identify necessary engineering works for effective rehabilitation.
• Important Details:
  • The rehabilitation is to transform Kennon Road into an all-weather road.

3. Maintenance Responsibilities

• Provision: Post-rehabilitation, the DPWH is responsible for the ongoing maintenance of Kennon Road.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Maintenance" refers to ensuring that the road remains safe and serviceable for public use.
• Important Procedures:
  • The DPWH is required to implement regular assessments to uphold safety and serviceability standards.

4. Funding for Rehabilitation and Maintenance

• Provision: The necessary funds for the rehabilitation and maintenance of Kennon Road will be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.
• Key Requirements:
  • Financial allocations must be planned and provided through this annual legislative process.

5. Implementation Timeline

• Provision: This Act will take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication.
• Important Details:
  • Publication must occur in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation for the Act to become effective.

6. Legislative History

• Provision: The Act originated in the House of Representatives and received approval from both Houses of Congress.
• Key Dates:
  • Passed by the House of Representatives on May 20, 2020.
  • Approved by the Senate on September 6, 2021.
  • Signed into law by the President on December 10, 2021.

Key Takeaways

• Republic Act No. 11604 mandates the full rehabilitation and ongoing maintenance of Kennon Road under the DPWH's authority.
• A feasibility study and evaluation of the road's condition are required for effective rehabilitation.
• Funding for these activities will be sourced from the General Appropriations Act.
• The Act becomes effective fifteen days post-publication, ensuring timely implementation of road safety measures.