Responsibility for Road Improvement, Repair, and Maintenance
- The Secretary of Public Works and Highways is mandated to include the newly converted national road in the Department’s infrastructure program.
- The program must cover improvement, repair, and maintenance activities for the said road.
- Funding for these activities shall be incorporated in the annual General Appropriations Act, ensuring allocation of government resources.
Effectivity Clause
- The Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication.
- Publication must be made either in the Official Gazette or in two newspapers of general circulation.
- Ensures that the public is given ample notice of the law before its provisions become enforceable.
Legislative Process and Approval
- The Act originated in the House of Representatives.
- It was passed by the House on August 3, 2011, and by the Senate on December 18, 2012.
- It received the President’s approval on March 26, 2013, signifying its enactment into law.
Key Legal and Administrative Concepts
- Conversion of road classification implies a change in governance from provincial to national level.
- Direct responsibility for upkeep is centralized under the DPWH, streamlining infrastructure management.
- Funding assurance through the General Appropriations Act secures governmental commitment to infrastructure development.
- The specified procedure for publication before effectivity promotes transparency and public awareness.