MANILA, Philippines (PNA) -- The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has accelerated work on the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Pandan-Libertad road in Antique province.

DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson said the project includes the construction of two road sections and construction and rehabilitation of 12 bridges.

"The improvement of this road network will provide easy access not only for Antiqueños in northern Antique but also for foreign and local tourists who travel along the nautical highway going to Boracay from Iloilo thus further boosting eco-tourism in northern Antique and enhancing agricultural productivity and economic enterprises" Singson said.

Among the bridges to be rehabilitated are Nauring, Bugang, Duyong, Quibacan, Igot, San Roque, Nipa and Iniyawan while the bridges to be reconstructed are Inigman, Maramig, Cawayan and Idiayan. The road project is scheduled to be completed by April 2012.

Once completed, Singson said the project will boost ecotourism in the province.