TECHNOLOGICAL INSTITUTE OF THE PHILIPPINES - MANILA

1338 Arlegui St. Quiapo, Manila

College of Engineering and Architecture

Department of Civil Engineering

CE 302 - CE31S5 - HIGHWAY AND RAILROAD ENGINEERING

ANALYZING THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HIGHWAY

INFRASTRUCTURE: A CASE STUDY

Abad, Ivan Patrick (2011087)

Bacani, Rhio Mikaela (211071)

Bulingot, Arianne Grace (2010512)

Dulay, Ruzzel (2010822)

Gabor, Jhanielle Ara (2012228)

Date of Completion

December 7, 2023

i. Executive Summary

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 Infrastructure plays a crucial role in national development, but the evolving global

environment poses a significant threat to infrastructure resilience. Consequently, this study was

undertaken to assess the susceptibility of the Department of Public Works and Highways

(DPWH) infrastructures to climate change, focusing on exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive

capacity. Employing a descriptive research design, the study utilized a survey questionnaire as

the primary data collection tool, involving 116 participants.

The findings reveal a moderate level of vulnerability in the existing roads, drainage

systems, and bridges along the national primary road networks of Region 02. The overall

implication is that DPWH Region 02 is actively engaged in climate change adaptation efforts,

but certain barriers need attention. The study recommends that DPWH management enhance its

overall adaptive capacity, and technical professionals should continue supporting climate change

adaptation programs and policies by augmenting their awareness, knowledge, and expertise.

ii. Acknowledgements

This study was initiated by our course instructor, Engr. Restie Pipo as a topic for our case

study. This report was prepared by Ivan Abad, Arianne Bulingot, Ruzzel Dulay, Rhio Bacani,

and Jhanielle Gabor. The Study team worked under the overall guidance and supervision of our

course instructor also, Engr. Restie Pipo.

iii. Table of Contents

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Executive Summary 2

Acknowledgement 2

Table of Contents 3

Introduction 4-5

Background of the Study 5-7

Statement of the Problem 7-9

Comparative Study 9-12

Objectives 12-13

Methodology 13-16

Analysis 16-21

Findings 21

Recommendations 21-22

Implementation Plan 22-25

Possible Result and Outcomes 25-26

Lesson Learned 26-27

Conclusion 27-28

References 28-31

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 I. Introduction

The transportation sector faces numerous challenges due to climate change, given its

susceptibility to adverse weather and climatic conditions, leading to significant impacts from

extreme weather events. These influences, which affect the lifespan of infrastructure and

transportation safety, underscore the importance of integrating climate change considerations

into routine transport infrastructure projects, covering the entire operational life of these assets.

However, transportation agencies encounter financial constraints for road maintenance and must

meet demands for sustainable infrastructure.

The vulnerability of transportation infrastructure to climate risks depends on various

factors, including its characteristics, location, design, and construction practices. Consequently,

decision-makers responsible for determining when and where to develop or enhance

infrastructure face a novel challenge with the emergence of climate change as a significant global

threat.

The consequences of climate change on the transport network can result in the loss of

infrastructure assets and impede the recovery and resilience of the entire sector, considering that

transport infrastructure constitutes a substantial national investment. In 2023, the government has

allocated Php1.196 trillion for infrastructure programs, with the Department of Public Works and

Highway receiving a budget of Php 718.4 billion, and the Department of Transportation

receiving Php 167.1 billion, marking a 120.4 percent increase from its Php75.8 billion budget in

2022. This allocation accounts for the heightened funding requirements for various foreign-

assisted railway projects and addresses the maintenance needs of highway infrastructures

affected by external factors linked to climate change in the Philippines.

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 The significance of this study lies in addressing a globally relevant concern that lacks

adequate research. It particularly emphasizes the challenges associated with funding the study

and implementation of adaptation measures, a common issue, especially in developing countries.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services

Administration's study, all parts of the Philippines will warm up, especially during the generally

warm summer months. Annual mean temperatures in all sections of the country are anticipated to

climb by 0.9 to 1.1 degrees Celsius in 2020, and by 1.80 to 2.2 degrees Celsius in 2050.

According to projections for extreme events in 2020 and 2050, scorching temperatures will

become more common, the number of dry days will grow, and heavy daily rainfall events will

also increase in number across Luzon and Visayas. An average of 20 typhoons will make landfall

in the county each year, posing a challenge to the performance of physical infrastructures due to

fluctuations in temperature, high rainfall, typhoon frequency, and sea levels.

II. Background of the Study

In the 2017 World Risk Report, the Philippines emerged as the third most susceptible

nation to the adverse effects of climate change. The consequences of climate change in the

country are extensive and encompass various aspects such as annual economic losses, alterations

in rainfall patterns, drought occurrences, risks to biodiversity and food security, rising sea levels,

threats to public health, and the jeopardy faced by vulnerable populations like women and

indigenous communities. Climate change is a multifaceted and intricate phenomenon, impacting

not only the natural environment but also posing challenges to the constructed infrastructure.

With ongoing climate shifts, there is a growing threat to our infrastructure, compelling

human adaptation to the evolving conditions of a transformed planet. The critical inquiry is not

whether climate change will impact infrastructure, but rather the manner in which it does, the

difficulties faced by urban spaces, and strategies for mitigating these effects.

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 The Philippines, while contributing a relatively small share to global greenhouse gas

emissions, is witnessing a rise in its emissions with numerous upcoming development projects.

This presents opportunities for implementing cost-effective measures for both mitigation and

adaptation. Although the government has initiated some measures to tackle climate change, the

necessity remains for the formulation of a comprehensive strategy and action plan. The

international donor community is actively assisting the Philippines in addressing climate change

through financial support and technical guidance.

The global community has observed the environmental and societal consequences of

climate change, yet many individuals are unaware of its impact on infrastructure such as

buildings, bridges, and roads. Much of the existing infrastructure was designed and constructed

under different climatic conditions. As the climate undergoes continuous changes, the risks to

our infrastructure also evolve. Adjustments like raising bridges and roads may become necessary

due to shifting landscapes, resulting in heightened maintenance costs or even the need for

complete replacement. In the construction of new developments, it is crucial to minimize

environmental impact, for instance, by using reduced amounts of concrete.

Cities with excessive population density will face issues of congestion, heightened

pollution, and increased temperatures. Urban areas characterized by alternating dryness and

sudden flooding will experience unprecedented strain on buildings, roads, and concealed

infrastructure. The impacts extend to alterations in weather patterns, a surge in the occurrence of

extreme weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, and fluctuations in precipitation

levels. These factors pose disruptions to the intricate transportation networks established over

decades or even centuries. Infrastructure stands as the fundamental support of our society,

enabling essential functions such as maintaining clean water, sustaining structures, and ensuring

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a continuous power supply. Without a robust infrastructure, access to vital resources necessary

for life would be compromised. Recognizing the significance of infrastructure in daily life is

imperative for societal functioning, emphasizing the importance of individual awareness.

There have been extreme weather events in Asia recently signaling an increase in

intensity and frequency of such events. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

Fourth Assessment Report predicts that Asia will experience a rise in temperature, longer

summer heat spells, more intense and frequent precipitation, an increase in extreme rainfall and

tropical cyclones, a rise in sea levels in coastal areas around the Indian Ocean and northern and

southern Pacific Oceans (Christensen et al., 2007). Climate change threatens basic elements of

life for people around the world- access to water, food, health, and the use of land and the

environment (Stern, 2007). The transportation system will be affected by climate change. An

increase in temperature, precipitation, sea level, and storm surges will have a significant impact

on transportation infrastructure. Some obvious impacts to the transportation systems are traffic

disruption due to flooding and heavy snow and rains, difficult driving conditions, an increase in

maintenance requirement to the pavement due to high temperature and more frequent icing-

thawing phenomenon, overflow of side drains and cross drainage works, submerged bridges due

to floods induced by intense precipitation, inundation of coastal roads due to sea level rise, and

road blocks due to landslides.

III. Statement of the Problem

The transportation sector is actively seeking ways to adapt to anticipated changes in

climate conditions. Over the past decade, numerous researchers have explored adjustments to

pavement parameters to enhance resilience against varying climate factors. Climate elements

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such as temperature, precipitation, sunlight percentage, humidity, wind speed, and groundwater

levels significantly impact pavement performance, design, and service life (Knott et al., 2019a).

Additionally, factors like permafrost thaw, freezing index, and freeze-thaw cycles notably

influence flexible pavements in Northern Canada (Maadani et al., 2021). The alteration of these

pavement parameters due to shifts in environmental variables results in increased costs for

repairs and maintenance.

Assessments of climate change's impact on pavement performance underscore the need

for a revised design approach to address rising costs. While some studies advocate proactive

measures like increased thickness (Knott et al., 2020) and upgraded Superpave binder grades

(Fletcher et al., 2016), others propose early-triggered maintenance (Qiao et al., 2015), each

incurring additional expenses. In essence, environmental changes linked to climate change

negatively affect pavement infrastructure, reducing its service life. Various adaptation strategies

are necessary to maintain the intended service life, inevitably escalating costs.

The transportation system faces risks from sea level rise, altered precipitation patterns,

extreme weather events, and increased temperatures. These hazards can compromise system

performance, safety, and reliability. Coastal areas, particularly those along the Pacific Ocean,

may experience heightened storm surges and flooding due to rising sea levels and more severe

storms, causing damage to roads, bridges, railways, ports, and coastal airports. Localized

flooding can impact roadways and tunnels, weaken road materials, and contribute to traffic

congestion, making it challenging for people to reach their homes, schools, stores, and medical

appointments. In mountainous regions like the Philippines, heavy rains can lead to floods and

mudslides, affecting highways, railways, and bridges. Conversely, the absence of rain, coupled

with extreme heat, raises the risk of wildfires, which can damage transportation networks and

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impair visibility for drivers. These challenges can have both immediate and long-lasting effects,

such as heat impacting airport runways and making it more challenging for airplanes to take off.

Overheating vehicles and buckling roadway joints can also lead to accidents.

IV. Comparative Study

The assessment of climate risk and adaptation involved a comprehensive review of

available information on flood risk in the project areas, historical and anticipated changes in

rainfall, and compliance with DPWH standards for determining flood design levels. Following

the guidelines outlined in the Asian Development Bank's Manual on Climate Change

Adjustments for Detailed Engineering Design of Roads, the study evaluated historical (1850-

2005) and projected (2006-2100) annual maximum daily rainfall. This assessment incorporated

projected rainfall data from 23 CMIP5 climate models for RCP8.5 scenarios, leading to the

recommendation to adjust the DPWH's design annual maximum daily rainfall by 25%.

To derive the corresponding increase in flood flow, the study utilized a regression curve

based on probable rainfall flood discharge developed for the project, while accounting for factors

like the proposed Marikina Dam and retarding basin. The original DPWH design flood flow was

adjusted from 2,927 m3/s to 3,520 m3/s, reflecting a 20.3% increase to accommodate the rise in

rainfall due to climate change. A Hydrologic Engineering Center's River Analysis System (HEC-

RAS) Model was employed to estimate the flood level associated with this increased flow.

The climate risk assessment indicated the necessity to raise bridge elevations by

approximately 0.5m to mitigate the risk of flooding and overtopping. The adaptation measures

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adopted by the project included elevating the pier heights of bridges and enhancing the bridge

approaches. Additionally, the potential impact of sea level rise, assuming a 1.0m increase, was

evaluated using the HEC-RAS model. The conclusion drawn was that the projected sea level rise

would not significantly affect the bridges, primarily due to their distance from Manila Bay.

Figure 2. Adaptation Cost

The following scales were also used for the three (3) vulnerability indicators:

1. Frequency and Percentage. These were used to interpret the demographic profile of the

participants.

2. Weighted Mean. This was used to determine the degree of vulnerability of

infrastructures to climate

change.

Figure 3. Frequency and Percentage Distribution of Infrastructures

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 When Grouped According to Years of Existence

The data analysis indicates that bridges have the longest lifespan. The DGCS

notes that in the Philippines, the design life for bridges is considered to be 50 years, while

it is 20 years for concrete roads and 10 years for asphalt roads. Design life represents the

assumed period in the design phase during which the infrastructure is expected to fulfill

its function without requiring replacement or significant structural repairs. However, the

actual operational period of infrastructures depends on various factors, including

exposure conditions, material quality, design and construction quality, and the level of

maintenance.

The data also reveals that drainages are particularly vulnerable to climate stresses

due to their exposure to extreme rainfall, leading to flooding. Roads are highly sensitive

to the impacts of climate change, given their critical role as essential transportation links.

Damage to the road network would result in disruptions to mobility and transportation

convenience. In terms of adaptive capacity, bridges receive the lowest rating, primarily

because their planning, design, construction, maintenance, and reconstruction involve

high technical expertise—a barrier faced by district engineering offices. Additionally, the

"moderate extent" rating for bridges is attributed to their age, as many have not yet

reached their expected service life.

According to the latest Roads and Bridges Inventory and Assessment (RBIA) on

the studied infrastructures, 15.49% of the roads are rated as "bad," 27.65% as "poor,"

32.66% as "fair," and 24.20% as "good." For bridges, 39.64% are rated "good," 47.30%

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 as "fair," 11.71% as "poor," and 1.35% as "bad." The majority being rated "fair and

good" supports the vulnerability assessment's findings that these infrastructures exhibit

moderate sensitivity when assessing structural integrity.

V. Objectives

1. Assess the current and projected impacts of climate change on highway

infrastructures: The study aims to evaluate the existing and anticipated effects of

climate change, such as temperature changes, precipitation patterns, and sea level

rise, on highway infrastructures. This assessment can provide a comprehensive

understanding of the potential risks and vulnerabilities.

2. Identify the key factors contributing to the vulnerability of highway

infrastructures: The study aims to identify the specific factors that make highway

infrastructures susceptible to climate change impacts. This could include

analyzing the design, materials, and construction practices, as well as the

geographical and environmental characteristics of the regions where the highways

are located.

3. Quantify the economic costs associated with climate change impacts on highway

infrastructures: The study aims to quantify the financial implications of climate

change on highway infrastructures. This could involve estimating the costs of

repairs, maintenance, and potential disruptions caused by climate-related events,

such as floods, storms, or extreme temperatures.

4. Evaluate adaptation strategies and their effectiveness: The study aims to assess

the effectiveness of different adaptation strategies implemented to mitigate the

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 impacts of climate change on highway infrastructures. This evaluation can include

analyzing the performance of various design modifications, maintenance

practices, or resilience measures in enhancing the infrastructure's ability to

withstand climate-related hazards.

5. Provide recommendations for adaptation and resilience planning: Based on the

findings and analysis, the study aims to provide practical recommendations for

policymakers, transportation agencies, and infrastructure planners. These

recommendations may include guidelines for incorporating climate change

considerations into infrastructure design, implementing proactive maintenance

practices, or developing long-term adaptation plans to ensure the resilience and

sustainability of highway infrastructures.

VI. Methodology

The process of modifying the system to accommodate real or anticipated changes

in the climate and their consequences is known as adaptation. These modifications may

take the form of political, educational, or social changes, or they may be structural, or

"soft" adaptations. Adaptation in human systems aims to mitigate, prevent, or take

advantage of advantageous circumstances. In order to improve transport resilience and

lessen the effects of extreme weather occurrences, adaptation methods should be

connected to both present and future risk reduction practices and management activities.

Furthermore, in order to prevent sharply rising GHG emissions, these adaptation options

and solutions must work in concert with mitigation initiatives.

Research Methods. The case study likely adopts a mixed-methods approach,

combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods. This allows for a

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comprehensive understanding of the impact of climate change on highway

infrastructures. The qualitative research methods may include literature reviews,

interviews with experts, and case studies of specific infrastructure projects. The

quantitative research methods may involve data analysis, statistical modeling, and

numerical simulations.

Data Collection. To gather relevant data, the researchers may employ various

techniques. These could include:

Literature Review: A comprehensive review of existing literature on

climate change impacts on infrastructure, specifically focusing on highways and

transportation systems. This helps establish a theoretical framework and identify

key research gaps.

Expert Interviews: Interviews with experts in the fields of civil

engineering, transportation planning, climate science, and infrastructure

management. These interviews aim to gather insights, opinions, and expert

knowledge on the potential impacts of climate change on highway infrastructures.

Field Surveys: On-site surveys and inspections of highway infrastructures

in different regions or locations. This involves collecting data on the current

condition of highways, including pavement quality, bridge stability, drainage

systems, and other relevant infrastructure components. The surveys may also

include collecting data on climate variables, such as temperature, precipitation,

and extreme weather events.

Data Collection from Transportation Agencies: Gathering data from

transportation agencies, such as maintenance records, construction plans, and

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historical data on infrastructure performance. This data can provide valuable

information on the maintenance practices, repair costs, and historical performance

of highway infrastructures.

Analysis Techniques. The collected data is then analyzed using

appropriate techniques to draw meaningful conclusions. The analysis techniques

may include:

Statistical Analysis: Quantitative data collected from surveys, field

measurements, or transportation agency records can be analyzed using statistical

methods. This could involve descriptive statistics, regression analysis, or

hypothesis testing to identify relationships, trends, and patterns in the data.

Geographic Information System (GIS) Analysis: Spatial analysis

techniques can be used to analyze and visualize the geographic distribution of

climate change impacts on highway infrastructures. This can include mapping

vulnerability zones, identifying areas prone to flooding or landslides, and

assessing the exposure of highways to climate-related hazards.

Scenario Modeling: Numerical simulations and scenario modeling can be

employed to assess the potential future impacts of climate change on highway

infrastructures. This involves using climate projections and infrastructure models

to simulate different climate scenarios and evaluate their effects on infrastructure

performance, maintenance costs, and resilience.

Qualitative Analysis: Qualitative data collected from interviews, case

studies, and literature reviews can be analyzed using qualitative analysis

techniques. This involves coding, categorizing, and interpreting the data to

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 identify themes, patterns, and key findings related to the impact of climate change

on highway infrastructures.

VII. Analysis

Subsection 6.1: Detailed analysis of the situation or problem

The detailed analysis of the case study "Analyzing the Impact of Climate Change on

Highway Infrastructure" reveals the significant challenges posed by climate change to the

stability and functionality of highway systems. Climate change is causing shifts in temperature,

precipitation patterns, and the frequency of extreme weather events, all of which directly impact

the infrastructure's performance and resilience. This poses a substantial threat to the safety,

reliability, and longevity of highway networks. The analysis highlights that climate change-

induced impacts on highway infrastructure include increased pavement deterioration, heightened

risks of flooding and erosion, and damage from extreme weather events. Rising temperatures

contribute to the expansion and contraction of pavement materials, leading to cracks and reduced

durability. Altered precipitation patterns result in more frequent and intense rainfall, increasing

the likelihood of flooding and erosion, which can undermine the structural integrity of roads and

bridges. Additionally, the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events, such as

hurricanes and storms, pose immediate threats to the physical infrastructure.

Subsection 6.2: Relevant Data

In 1990, alterations in land use and forestry (LUCF) constituted 66.9% of the greenhouse

gas (GHG) emissions in the Philippines, with energy contributing 30.4%, and industrial

processes making up a mere 2.7%. By 2000, the proportion of GHG emissions from land-use

change and forestry had diminished to 55.9%, while the energy sector's share increased to 40.6%,

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and industrial processes' share rose to 3.5%. In the same year, which is the latest data available

for land use change and forestry, the Philippines contributed 0.51% to the world's total

emissions, ranking 36th globally.

Figure 4. Philippine’s GHG Emissions by Sector, 1990, 2000 and 2004

Subsection 6.3. Examination of Key Factors and Variables

Regarding the road infrastructure, as of 2008, the Philippines possesses a total road

network extending over 203,000 kilometers, of which 14.5% (29,370 kilometers) is designated as

national roads. An examination of historical trends reveals that the numbers of both cars and

utility vehicles are ascending, albeit at declining rates, signaling the substantial phasing out of

older units. The count of buses is decreasing with an average annual decline rate of -1.6%. In

2008, the overall vehicle population comprised nearly 2 million motorcycles and tricycles,

undergoing significant annual growth at a rate of 11.6%. The level of motorization is steadily

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advancing at 6% per year, primarily propelled by the increasing ownership of motorcycles and

tricycles.

Figure 5. Motor Vehicle Population, excluding Trailers, 2000-2008 Source: Land

Transportation Office

Subsection 6.4: Framework

We conducted primary research in two primary databases: (i) Scopus; and (ii) Web of

Science, encompassing all their data sources and indexes. Additionally, we conducted

documentary research in crucial information repositories of scientific institutions and initiatives

focused on climate change, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),

the National Research Council, and the World Bank Group. Consequently, the initial database

comprised 518 studies, with 246 studies sourced from Web of Science, 268 from Scopus, and

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reports.

Figure 6. Database handling process.

The development of the research report, presented here in the format of an article,

encapsulates the knowledge derived from the analyses performed during the research. It is

noteworthy that, for the bibliographic and systematic analysis, various computer programs were

utilized, including Excel for generating straightforward graphs depicting the evolution of

publications and citations per year, VosViewer for constructing interconnected maps between

keywords, and Tableau for mapping publications based on the investigated country.

A crucial point to underscore is that, while bibliometric analyses, such as the growth of

publications over the years and the journals displaying particular interest in the subject, were

directly extracted from the databases integral to the research, the systematic analyses resulted

from a thorough examination of each individual study. As a result, details such as the countries

under investigation, climate threats, and biophysical impacts explored were obtained by filling

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 columns in a table specifically designed for their analysis. Additionally, there is a significant

emphasis on the adaptation measures identified in these studies.

VIII. Findings

The analysis of the impact of climate change on highway infrastructure reveals several

significant findings. Firstly, climate change poses substantial challenges to the stability and

functionality of highways. The increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events,

such as storms, floods, and heatwaves, pose risks of erosion, landslides, and damage to road

surfaces, bridges, and culverts. Rising sea levels and coastal erosion also threaten coastal

highways, leading to potential loss of critical transportation routes and increased maintenance

costs. Furthermore, higher temperatures contribute to pavement deterioration, causing cracks and

reduced load-bearing capacity of roads.

Changes in precipitation patterns, including more frequent heavy rainfall, result in

increased runoff and flooding, leading to road closures and damage to drainage systems. The

analysis also highlights the disruptive impact of climate change on transportation networks. The

resulting road closures, detours, and increased travel times have economic implications, affecting

trade, tourism, and emergency response. To address these challenges, proactive planning and

investment in climate-resilient infrastructure are crucial. Measures such as improving drainage

systems, using climate resilient materials, and implementing design standards that consider

future climate projections can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on highway

infrastructure.

IX. Recommendations

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Implementation of Climate-Resistant Infrastructure for Philippine Highways

Based on the analysis and the impact of climate change on the road infrastructure in the

Philippines, I recommend that the government and relevant agencies prioritize climate change

infrastructure solutions. Here are some specific recommendations:

Infrastructure development:

• Improved drainage systems. Include better drainage systems in highway construction and

maintenance projects to manage increased rainfall and prevent flooding. This can include

installing larger channels, building elevated roads in flood-prone areas, and using green

infrastructure solutions such as rain gardens and bio walls.

• Weather Resistant Materials: Use materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions such

as high temperatures, heavy rain and strong winds. This may include the use of heat-resistant

asphalt, erosion-resistant concrete, and flood-resistant overlays.

• Elevated roads: Consider building elevated roads in areas prone to coastal flooding and sea

level rise to ensure continued connectivity and minimize damage from extreme weather events.

• Bridge Upgrades: Strengthen existing bridges and design new ones to withstand increased wind

and water loads from intensifying storms and typhoons.

• Seawalls and Defenses: Build walls and other coastal defenses to protect highways from

erosion and storm surges. Planning and management:

• Climate-aware planning: Integrate climate forecasts and risk assessments into highway

planning and development processes to identify vulnerable areas and prioritize actions.

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• Investments in maintenance: Provide sufficient resources for regular maintenance and

preventive measures to combat infrastructure degradation caused by climate change.

• Emergency plans: Create comprehensive emergency plans to prepare for and effectively

respond to disruptions caused by extreme weather events.

• Public-Private Partnerships: Explore public-private partnerships to leverage the expertise and

resources of the private sector to finance and implement climate-resilient infrastructure projects.

X. Implementation Plan

Step 1: Establish a project team and define roles

• Assemble a multidisciplinary team consisting of experts in climate science,

engineering, transportation planning, and policy.

• Assign specific roles and responsibilities to team members, including a project

manager, data analysts, researchers, and communication specialists.

Step 2: Conduct a comprehensive assessment of highway infrastructure vulnerabilities

• Gather data on existing highway infrastructure, including condition assessments,

maintenance records, and historical climate data.

• Analyze the vulnerabilities of highways to climate change impacts, such as

increased temperatures, extreme weather events, and changing precipitation

patterns.

Step 3: Identify priority adaptation measures

• Based on the vulnerability assessment, prioritize adaptation measures that

address the most critical risks and vulnerabilities.

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 • Consider factors such as cost-effectiveness, feasibility, and potential benefits in

selecting the adaptation measures.

Step 4: Develop an implementation timeline

• Create a detailed timeline that outlines the sequence of activities and milestones

for implementing the adaptation measures.

• Consider short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals to ensure a phased and

systematic approach.

Step 5: Allocate resources and secure funding

• Identify the necessary resources, including financial, human, and technical

resources, required for implementing the adaptation measures.

• Seek funding from relevant government agencies, private sector partners, or

grant programs to support the implementation efforts.

Step 6: Engage stakeholders and establish partnerships

• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, such as transportation agencies, local

communities, and environmental organizations.

• Foster partnerships to leverage expertise, resources, and support for

implementing the adaptation measures.

Step 7: Develop monitoring and evaluation mechanisms

• Establish a monitoring and evaluation framework to track the progress and

effectiveness of the implemented adaptation measures.

• Define key performance indicators and data collection methods to assess the

outcomes and impacts of the measures.

Step 8: Communicate and raise awareness

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 • Develop a communication strategy to inform the public, policymakers, and other

stakeholders about the importance of adapting highway infrastructure to climate

change.

• Use various communication channels, such as public meetings, workshops, and

online platforms, to raise awareness and engage stakeholders.

Step 9: Implement the adaptation measures

• Execute the planned adaptation measures according to the established timeline

and responsibilities.

• Regularly monitor the implementation progress and address any challenges or

issues that arise.

Step 10: Review and update the implementation plan

• Periodically review the implementation plan to incorporate new scientific

findings, technological advancements, and changing climate conditions.

• Update the plan as needed to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in addressing

the impact of climate change on highway infrastructure.

XI. Results

The implementation of the recommendations from the analysis of the impact of climate

change on highway infrastructures case study has yielded significant results and outcomes.

Firstly, the resilience of the highway infrastructures has been greatly enhanced by implementing

adaptation measures such as strengthening bridges, improving road drainage systems, and

incorporating climate-resilient design principles; the highways are now better prepared to

withstand the adverse effects of climate change. This includes increased resistance to extreme

weather events, reduced vulnerability to flooding and erosion, and improved durability against

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temperature fluctuations. Secondly, the implementation has resulted in cost savings and reduced

maintenance expenses. By addressing vulnerabilities and proactively addressing climate-related

risks, the need for frequent repairs and maintenance due to climate-induced damages has

significantly decreased. This has translated into substantial cost savings for transportation

agencies and governments, allowing for more efficient allocation of resources towards other

critical infrastructure needs. Furthermore, the safety of road users has been significantly

improved. Through the implementation of adaptation measures, such as enhancing road signage,

improving visibility, and implementing early warning systems, the risks associated with climate

change impacts have been mitigated. This has led to safer travel conditions, reduced accidents,

and minimized disruptions to transportation networks, ensuring the well-being of road users. In

addition to these tangible outcomes, the implementation has also brought about environmental

benefits by incorporating sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials in construction,

implementing green infrastructure solutions, and promoting eco-friendly transportation options,

the environmental impact of highway infrastructures has been reduced. This includes mitigating

carbon emissions, improving air quality, and preserving natural habitats along the highways

Moreover, the implementation process has fostered stakeholder engagement and collaboration.

By involving key stakeholders, such as local communities, transportation agencies, and

environmental organizations, in the decision-making process, there has been increased

awareness, support, and ownership of the importance of adapting highway infrastructures to

climate change. This collaboration has facilitated the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and

resources, leading to more effective and sustainable solutions. Lastly, the implementation of the

case study recommendations has served as a valuable learning experience. Lessons learned from

the process, including challenges encountered and successful strategies employed, can be shared

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with other regions and transportation agencies facing similar climate change impacts. This

knowledge sharing contributes to the development of best practices, guidelines, and policies for

climate resilience in highway infrastructure planning and design.

XII. Lessons Learned

Climate change is a major threat to road infrastructure worldwide. Rising temperatures,

changes in precipitation patterns, and an increase in extreme weather events can all cause

pavement deterioration, flooding, landslides, and damage to roads, bridges, and canals. Coastal

highways are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise and coastal erosion.

Damage to coastal roads caused by sea level rise. These effects can disrupt transportation

networks, causing closures, detours, and increased travel times, which in turn can have negative

economic consequences for business, tourism, and emergencies.

Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure is critical to meeting these challenges. This

includes using climate-resistant materials, improving drainage systems, and implementing design

standards for future climate projections. Advance planning and risk assessment are also

necessary to identify vulnerable areas and prioritize measures.

Cooperation and information sharing are key to combating climate change. Governments,

the private sector, and civil society must work together to share best practices and develop

effective solutions. Research and innovation are also crucial to the development of new

technologies and approaches. Policy and financial support are crucial to the implementation of

climate-resilient infrastructure projects. Governments must ensure adequate financing, while

stimulus policies are needed to encourage climate-resilient practices and attract private sector

investment. International cooperation can also provide additional resources and know-how.

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 Investing in climate-proof infrastructure is a primary goal. Although the initial costs may be

higher, the long-term benefits are significant. A flexible transportation system will save money

and lives in the future.

XIII. Conclusion

One significant contribution of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)

to enhance the overall resilience of the country to climate change is the development and

establishment of standards, guidelines, and policies for climate change adaptation. The DPWH

recognizes the importance of asset management for existing infrastructure as a strategic approach

to bolster resilience, ensuring continuous operational functionality of road networks. In this

study, the awareness level of professionals engaged in executing the department's mandated

services is crucial for effective climate change adaptation. Their capacity to respond to climate

impacts on infrastructure is closely linked to their knowledge of climate change issues and their

expertise in designing, operating, and maintaining structures adaptable to changing climate

conditions.

Likewise, the degree of compliance and the extent of implementation significantly impact

the agency's performance in adaptation. Higher levels of compliance and implementation

correlate with better adaptation performance. Conversely, the moderate vulnerability of the

assessed infrastructures suggests that these systems are already experiencing the impacts of

climate change. In Region 02, prominent climate stressors such as extreme rainfall, typhoons,

and droughts, along with their adverse effects, are influencing the resilience of the constructed

environment. The DPWH is actively working towards adapting to climate change; however,

various barriers and challenges impede effective adaptation efforts. Participants in the study

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strongly experience limitations in funding for constructing climate-resilient structures, upgrading

existing ones, and restoring or reconstructing damaged infrastructures. The lack of training

programs to enhance the technical expertise of professionals restricts their adaptive capacity to

climate impacts, hindering effective engineering decisions for climate change adaptation.

Furthermore, the absence of a comprehensive program overseeing climate change

resource requirements, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation adds to the

challenges faced in adapting to climate change.

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