ZAMBOANGA CITY – June 11, 2025 — The long-anticipated redevelopment of R.T. Lim Boulevard officially commenced on Wednesday morning as the Department of Public Works and Highways Region IX (DPWH-9), in partnership with the Zamboanga City Government, broke ground on the P101.3-million infrastructure project in San Jose Cawa-Cawa.
Funded under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2024, the project carries a contract amount of P98.26 million and is slated for completion by 2026. The construction will be undertaken by HHH Developer and Construction firm.
The groundbreaking ceremony marked the start of construction for the R.T. Lim Boulevard Package 1, which aims to transform the coastal strip into a modern, pedestrian-friendly zone. Plans include landscaped walkways, shaded rest areas, and enhanced coastal protection features—all geared towards promoting leisure, urban mobility, and community engagement.
Officials from the city and DPWH-9 led the ceremonial rites. Outgoing Mayor John Dalipe was represented by Michael Francisco from the City Engineer’s Office (CEO), while incoming Mayor and First District Representative Khymer Olaso was represented by Kaiser Olaso. Both highlighted the project’s significance in enhancing public spaces and boosting local tourism and economic activity.
According to the DPWH-9 Zamboanga City First District Engineering Office, the project spans 342 meters in net length and features a 12.20-meter-wide carriageway with a 300-millimeter-thick Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP).
Chief of the DPWH-9 Construction Section, Shadimar Sailadi, representing OIC-District Engineer Melchor Anquillano, expressed appreciation for the local government’s support, stressing the shared commitment to building sustainable and accessible infrastructure for long-term development.
Once completed, the revitalized boulevard is expected to become a key urban attraction and a symbol of the city’s continued progress and livability.