As the sun rose over the quiet fishing town of Balatan, Julio Rellorcasa, a 58-year-old fisherman, prepared his banca for another day at sea.
For decades, he has navigated the pristine waters of Balatan, hauling fish and dreaming of a brighter future for his children.
But getting his catch to the markets in nearby towns has always been a challenge.
The long, winding roads are dusty in the dry season and treacherously muddy during the rains. “If only there was a faster way,” he often thought.
That hope is finally becoming a reality with the construction of the Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway.
Pasacao-Balatan Coastal Road
Spanning 40.69 kilometers across five municipalities, this ambitious project is not just a road—it is a lifeline that promises to transform lives, connect communities, and bring unparalleled economic opportunities to the province of Camarines Sur.
A ROAD TO PROGRESS
Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration, infrastructure development has taken center stage, with the Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway being one of its flagship initiatives. (The project was started in 2018 during President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s administration.)
At a cost of P14.972 billion, the project aims to dramatically improve accessibility, cutting travel time between Pasacao and Balatan from over two hours to just 41 minutes.
“This highway will connect us not just to nearby towns but to opportunities we’ve only dreamed of,” Rellorcasa said, flashing a smile.
His sentiments echo those of many residents who see the road as a gateway to progress.
Funded locally through the General Appropriations Act (GAA) and supported by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the project has already received an initial allocation of P405.6 million. (P2.064 billion allocation released from FY 2018-2024 GAA)
Despite being only 9.76% complete as of now (11.45% work accomplishment as of November 30, 2024), its potential impact is already sparking excitement.
CUTTING TRAVEL TIME, SPURRING DEVELOPMENT
The highway will traverse the municipalities of Pasacao, San Fernando, Minalabac, Bula, and Balatan, crossing 13 bridges and passing through 15 barangays (17 not 15 barangays), including scenic locales like San Cirilo (please remove, not included), Balogo, Bical, Bagolatao, Camanghan, and Pararao.
For residents like 37-year-old Eden Bombita, a mother of two in Pasacao, the reduced travel time means better access to schools, healthcare, and markets.
“I won’t have to leave home as early to bring my kids to school; and my husband, who sells fresh coconut juice in nearby barangays, will be able to expand his business,” Bombita said.
The improved connectivity is expected to benefit 8,000 to 9,000 motorists daily.
Tourists, too, will find the highway a welcome development, as it opens up easier routes to explore Pasacao’s white-sand beaches and Balatan’s rich fishing culture.
A TOURISM BOOM IN THE MAKING
Department of Tourism Region 5 Director Herbie Aguas states the project is a game-changer for Camarines Sur’s tourism industry.
“This highway will make it easier for tourists to enjoy Pasacao’s idyllic beaches and Balatan’s unique attractions in a single trip,” he said.
Pasacao, often called the “Summer Capital of Camarines Sur,” offers stunning coastal scenery. At the same time, Balatan, known for its fishing heritage, has the potential to become a cultural and culinary tourism hub.
For backpackers like Anna Tanquin, a 24-year-old Manila-based entrepreneur, the highway is an invitation to discover Bicol’s hidden gems.
“I’ve been to Pasacao once, but getting there was a struggle. This highway will make exploring the region much more accessible,” Tanquin said.
The road is also expected to boost the province’s broader tourism strategy by linking major destinations, encouraging longer stays, and attracting domestic and international visitors.
UNLOCKING ECONOMIC POTENTIAL
Camarines Sur 2nd District Representative Luis Raymund Villafuerte highlighted the project’s economic potential.
“The Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway will spur the growth of small businesses, accommodations, and tourism-related industries along the route,” Villafuerte said.
With increased accessibility, communities along the highway are poised to benefit from the ripple effects of development.
Liza Moreno, who runs a small eatery in Barangay Bical, is already preparing for the influx of travelers. “I plan to add more items to my menu, maybe even some souvenirs. This highway, for sure, will bring more customers,” she said excitedly.
HUMAN IMPACT
For motorists like John Riva, a 35-year-old delivery driver from Albay, the highway means more than just a shorter travel time.
“It’s a huge relief for my budget. With the reduced gas consumption, I can save money for my family,” he explained. “And the time I save on the road can be spent with my kids.”
Farmers, too, stand to benefit. Ben Eclarinal, a rice farmer from San Fernando, often struggles to transport his harvest to markets in neighboring towns.
“Some of my crops have already spoiled by the time I get to the market. With this highway, I can get there faster and sell fresher produce,” he said.
A LEGACY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
The Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway is part of the government’s “Build Better More” program, which builds on the previous administration’s “Build, Build, Build” initiative.
First launched by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region V in October 2018, the highway project is scheduled for completion in December 2035.
President Marcos has reiterated the importance of infrastructure as a cornerstone of his administration.
“This highway reflects our commitment to improving the quality of life for Filipinos,” he said. “By connecting remote areas and fostering economic opportunities, we aim to ensure a brighter future for all.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Despite its completion progress being under 10% (12%), the Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway has already instilled a sense of optimism among Bicolanos.
It represents a bold step toward bridging gaps—not just between towns, but between dreams and reality.
As construction continues, locals like Juilo and Maya eagerly anticipate the day the highway becomes fully operational.
For them, it’s not just a road; it’s a promise of better days ahead.
“This project is not just for us,” said Mang Julio, gazing at the horizon. “It’s for our children and their future.”
With the road’s completion, Camarines Sur is set to become a major tourism and economic hub in the Bicol Region, creating a ripple effect that will benefit the province for future generations and fill the region with excitement and anticipation.
The Pasacao-Balatan Tourism Coastal Highway is more than just infrastructure—it is a testament to the transformative power of progress.
As Director Aguas aptly put it: “This highway will not only connect places; it will connect people to opportunities, to dreams, and each other.” (PTV)
