Mindanao—The much-anticipated Panguil Bay Bridge, Mindanao’s longest bridge, is set to open for traffic on September 27, 2024. This landmark infrastructure project will connect the provinces of Misamis Occidental and Lanao del Norte, significantly enhancing transportation and economic activities in the region.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan announced the update during a budget hearing on Monday, responding to a query from his predecessor, now Senator Mark Villar. “The Panguil Bay Bridge is scheduled for inauguration on September 27,” Bonoan confirmed.
The 3.17-kilometer sea-crossing bridge will link Tangub City in Misamis Occidental to Tubod in Lanao del Norte. This connection is expected to drastically reduce travel time between the two areas from over two hours to just 10 minutes, a significant improvement that will benefit commuters and boost local economies.
Senator Villar praised the swift implementation of the project, stating, “I commend the secretary for the swift implementation of that project.” The bridge is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and connectivity in Mindanao.
The Panguil Bay Bridge project, with a budget of ₱7.37 billion, is funded through a loan agreement between the Philippines and South Korea, facilitated by the Economic Development Cooperation Fund. This international collaboration underscores the importance of the project not only for local development but also for strengthening bilateral relations.
The bridge is expected to bring numerous benefits to the region. It will facilitate easier and faster movement of goods and people, promote tourism, and provide a more reliable route for emergency and essential services. The reduced travel time will also likely lead to increased economic activities, as businesses can operate more efficiently with improved logistics.
Local residents and officials have expressed optimism about the bridge’s opening. Many believe it will be a catalyst for growth and development in the area, attracting investments and creating job opportunities. The bridge is also seen as a symbol of progress and a step towards better infrastructure in Mindanao.
As the inauguration date approaches, preparations are underway to ensure a smooth opening. The DPWH is coordinating with local government units and other stakeholders to finalize the necessary arrangements.
The Panguil Bay Bridge stands as a monumental achievement in Mindanao’s infrastructure development, promising to transform the region’s landscape and improve the quality of life for its residents. The opening of the bridge marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a more connected and prosperous Mindanao.
