Davao-Samal Bridge likely to start in 2019

An official of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 11 disclosed that the construction of the Davao-Samal Bridge will likely start in 2019 with the pre-feasibility study is underway.

DPWH 11 regional director Mariano Alquiza said the Davao-Samal Bridge pre-feasibility study will be approved by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), which then forward to Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for acceptance.

“JICA will accept if the project is worthwhile then bidding will be conducted for the conduct of the feasibility study including the plan, program of work and design of the bridge,” Alquiza said.

Alquiza said bidding will be made for the construction. He said if things go correctly the actual construction of Davao-Samal Bridge will be in 2019.

He said there is a clamor for government to construct a Davao-Samal Bridge to spur economic development in the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS).

“Hindi babalikan ang isyu ng bridge na yan kung walang need (The bridge issue will not be re-opened if there is no need),” he said.

Alquiza said NEDA-11 requested DPWH-11 to continue the feasibility study adding that DPWH-11 recently held a consultation with representatives from JICA.

With regards to the existing barge currently plying Davao to Samal, Alquiza said the routes will be transferred to Tagpopongan port in Samal. He said based on the study riding a boat from Mati to Tagpopongan in Samal will save a travel time of not less than 30 minutes.

“If you travel from Mati to Davao City, which is normally two to three hours travel, using the boat will save you not less than 30 minutes,” Alquiza said. Maya M. Padillo