The Risk Management of DPWH Project Implementation Along Maharlika Highway in Albay

This study determined the risks that were encountered, risk management practices applied, and the effectiveness of these practices in projects implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Office V along the Maharlika Highway in the 3rd District of Albay from 2016 to 2025. Focusing on the types of risks encountered, the risk management practices applied, and their effectiveness, the study addresses environmental, technical, construction, physical, socio-political, organizational, and financial risks that influence project execution. A total of eleven (11) infrastructure projects were examined which comprised road widening, preventive maintenance/asphalt overlay, off-carriageway improvements, and road rehabilitation works. The research methodology used was a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires to selected DPWH Project Engineers and Project Inspectors, and semi-structured interviews to key informants. Findings showed that environmental risks, especially negative weather conditions, were the most influential factor in project implementation followed by technical and construction, physical, socio-political and organizational and financial risks. Operational safety was the main physical hazard, and lack of coordination and communication led to project inefficiency. Existing risk management practices were largely reactive and focused on monitoring, inspection and adaptive measures however effectively mitigated short-term disruptions. Recurring risks across projects point to systemic issues in preparedness, planning and organization for the environment. The research concluded that the DPWH projects are usually done in an effective manner and would use proactive and integrated risk management, better environmental mitigation, better safety provisions, improved social political risk foreseeing, and better financial planning. The results underscored the importance for systematically identifying risk as well as proactive mitigation and sustained learning in organizations in the sustainability and high-performing highway infrastructure.