Zamboanga City — A key infrastructure project aimed at decongesting one of Zamboanga City’s busiest intersections officially opened to motorists on Thursday afternoon, May 22, 2025.
Without formal ceremonies, the Sta. Cruz Flyover was declared open by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan following an on-site inspection to assess the facility’s readiness for public use. The inspection marked the culmination of years of planning and construction intended to improve vehicular flow and safety in the area.
Joining Secretary Bonoan during the site assessment were Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe, First District Representative and former mayor Celso Lobregat representing Mayor-elect and District I Congressman Khymer Adan Olaso, DPWH-Region IX officials led by Regional Director Dia Cayamombao, and representatives from project contractor Frey-Fil Corporation.
Constructed under the DPWH’s supervision through Region IX, the flyover is strategically designed to provide a direct and elevated route for motorists heading toward the airport and the city’s western sectors. The project, which cost a total of ₱450 million sourced from the 2018 and 2022 General Appropriations Act (GAA), is expected to significantly ease congestion in the busy Sta. Cruz area.
Spanning a total of 437.70 meters, the structure includes a bridge length of 248.62 meters and approaches measuring 189.08 meters. It also features a width of 17.50 meters, accommodating four traffic lanes to allow smoother and safer traffic flow.
Secretary Bonoan highlighted the project’s importance in enhancing traffic conditions and commended the collaboration among government agencies and contractors. “This facility will help improve not only traffic flow but also overall road safety. It is ready and fully functional for the public,” he said.
To manage the transition to the new traffic pattern, authorities have rolled out a set of safety and regulatory measures. These include vehicle restrictions, designated pedestrian lanes, clear signage, and the deployment of traffic enforcers. Public transport access will also be monitored and adjusted based on real-time traffic data during the initial implementation phase.
City officials and residents alike hope that the new flyover will bring long-term relief to one of Zamboanga’s most congested junctions.