New Right of Way law to speed up infra projects —Marcos economic aide

Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA) Frederick Go on Friday welcomed the signing into law of the Accelerated and Reformed Right of Way (ARROW) Act.

The Republic Act No. 12289, which amends Republic Act No. 10752 or The Right of Way Act, was signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as announced by the Palace on Thursday. 

“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. 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,” Go said.

“The issues surrounding right-of-way are usually the reason for the delay of infrastructure projects nationwide,” the SAPIEA added.

The presidential assistant stated that infrastructure projects are often hindered by disputes over property valuation, overlapping claims, and fragmented legal processes. 

Go said the ARROW Act addresses these challenges by institutionalizing a streamlined framework for land acquisition.

The SAPIEA said the ARROW Act applies to infrastructure projects initiated by the national government, its public service facilities, and authorized private entities that are granted the power of eminent domain. 

It covers key sectors, including power transmission and distribution, water supply and wastewater systems, petroleum pipelines, airports and seaports, telecommunications and broadband networks, and irrigation projects and other public utility services.

The law is also a welcome development for commuters. 

It authorizes priority government infrastructure projects to proceed at depths of up to 18 meters below ground – on par with regional standards – clearing the way for long-awaited subway systems. 

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

Go said the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the ARROW Act will be issued within 60 days by an inter-agency committee, in consultation with key stakeholders. —LDF, GMA Integrated News