1 month ago
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THE P23.5-billion China-funded bridge project that would connect Samal Island and Davao City is making significant progress in both design and construction, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
In an inspection report to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan on Wednesday, Emil Sadain highlighted the steady progress of the Samal Island-Davao City (SIDC) connector project, with the overall physical accomplishment at 11.87 percent and a positive slippage of 4.35 percent.
It added that the bridge's foundation works are advancing as planned, and the SIDC project, which spans 4.76 kilometers, is right on track to meet its completion deadline by September 2028.
Sadain explained that construction is proceeding smoothly at a faster pace in accordance with the safety protocols.
"We are pleased to see commendable progress achieved so far. Despite the numerous logistical and technical challenges we face, particularly due to the depth of the seabed, we remain on track to deliver this iconic bridge project by 2028," said Sadain.
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"Our team continues to push forward, ensuring that the vision for this scenic and transformative infrastructure becomes a reality," he added.
During a site visit, Sadain said the DPWH SIDC Project team has also given its assurance that the design-and-build contractor, China Road and Bridges Corp., and project consultant Pertconsult International, were diligently following safety measures to protect workers and passing vessels.
He said environmental precautions are also given priority to mitigate any adverse impacts on the surrounding areas, with careful handling of equipment and materials.
"This is particularly crucial as piling works are under way at the Pakiputan Strait, an area with active marine traffic, while land viaduct construction is intensifying," he added.
Significant progress has also been reached in the bored piling activities for both the land and marine viaducts. As of now, 73 out of 110 piles for the land viaduct on the Davao City side have been completed, while all 74 piles for the Samal Island side viaduct are finished. For the navigation bridge, 13 piles have been completed on the Davao side, and 11 piles have been completed on the Samal side.
The project will feature two lanes in each direction, as well as ramps, roundabouts, and both marine and land viaducts. The bridge will have a 275-meter main span, two pylons standing 73 meters above sea level and a 1.62-kilometer marine crossing, further cementing its role in improving regional connectivity.
Land acquisition for the project is also progressing well with 71 percent of the required land in Davao City acquired through negotiated sale, while the remaining lots are in process and expropriation efforts are under way.
Notably, 88 percent of affected lots on the Davao side and all lots on the Samal side have been turned over to the DPWH. Additionally, 92 percent of the affected coconut trees and 90 percent of the timber trees have been acquired.
The P23.52-billion project is funded through an Official Development Assistance loan from China and is part of a broader national effort to enhance connectivity, alleviate traffic congestion and boost regional economic development.
It is one of the 12 mega-bridge projects listed in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s Build, Better More infrastructure program, which he mentioned in his 2023 State of the Nation Address.
Once completed, the bridge is expected to significantly improve access to Davao City and Samal Island, driving growth in tourism and economic activity across the region, said Sadain.
