DPWH, Netherlands consultant roll up sleeves for Kennon Road rehab
Consulting services for the privatization of operations and rehabilitation of the frequently-damaged Kennon Road has started, the state infrastructure chief said Tuesday.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar announced that a consulting contract has been awarded to privatize the operation and maintenance of the scenic zigzag road going to the country’s summer capital of Baguio City in Benguet.
“Marking the start of consulting services, DPWH will conduct virtual meeting on February 2, 2021 (today) with the winning consulting firm RebelGroup International BV so we can discuss the pre-feasibility study and project structuring up to the tendering of Kennon Road Rehabilitation to private concessionaires,” Villar said.
Villar described the privatization of Kennon Road as the “long-term solution to the costly maintenance” of the 33.7-kilometer mountain road which has long been frequented by landslides, resulting in closures, especially during the rainy season.
“With the help of the private sector, we can expect a more reliable Kennon Road that is not only the fastest but also the safest route from Rosario, La Union to Baguio City, Benguet,” he said.
The first meeting will define the roles and expectations of the department and the Netherlands-based consultant; identify key focal persons, deadline of deliverables; and work plan of the Transaction Advisor for the assignment.