‘New Right-of-Way Law to speed up infrastructure projects’

MANILA, Philippines — Infrastructure projects are expected to move at a much faster pace following the signing of a law that aims to address right-of-way (ROW) bottlenecks that have delayed project implementation, according to the Office of the Special Assistant for Investment and Economic Affairs (OSAPIEA).

Republic Act 12289 or the Accelerated and Reformed Right-of-Way (ARROW) Law, which was recently signed by President Marcos, aims to streamline the land acquisition process to enable quicker construction of roads, bridges, energy and water systems, schools as well as other critical infrastructure.

A priority measure of the administration, the ARROW Act was fast-tracked in line with Marcos’ directive to address long-standing ROW bottlenecks that have delayed vital infrastructure projects and discouraged private investment.

SAPIEA Frederick Go, who actively pushed for the approval of the ARROW, said issues surrounding ROW are usually the reason for the delay in infrastructure projects.

“The ARROW Act will speed up the delivery of projects, while ensuring fair compensation and transparency. This is a win for both the economy and the Filipino people,” Go said.

“It will enable better access to essential services, boost investor confidence and more importantly, fast-track projects that will deliver safer roads, shorter commutes, reliable electricity, clean water and increased opportunities,” he said further.

Disputes over property valuation, overlapping claims and fragmented legal processes have held back infrastructure projects.

The new law is expected to address these challenges through a streamlined framework for land acquisition.

The ARROW Act applies to national government infrastructure projects covering key sectors including power transmission and distribution, water supply and wastewater systems, petroleum pipelines, airports and seaports, telecommunications and broadband networks, irrigation projects and other public utility services.

Under the law, priority government infrastructure projects are authorized to proceed at depths of up to 18 meters below ground – at par with regional standards – clearing the way for long-awaited subway systems.

It also guarantees fair compensation for owners of subsurface structures that cannot be avoided.

Consultations will be conducted with key stakeholders for the implementing rules and regulations to be issued within 60 days.