DPWH highlights key progress in Davao City bridge construction

The construction of the 1.34-kilometer Davao River (Bucana) Bridge by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is making steady progress, with civil works now more than halfway complete, less than a year after breaking ground in November 2023.

In a report to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain highlighted that the project has reached an accomplishment rate of 53.76% and is on track to be opened to traffic by late 2025.

Sadain emphasized that the recent advancements in the Bucana Bridge project reflect the unwavering dedication and hard work of the DPWH in realizing the goals of this landmark infrastructure. Once completed, the bridge will significantly contribute to an advanced and sustainable national road network, particularly in Davao City.

The four-lane, six-span extra-dosed bridge and its approach roads, spanning the Davao River, have achieved key milestones in foundation works, the pouring of the pylon for Pier 1, and the installation of form travelers in preparation for the superstructure, among other developments.

Implemented by the DPWH Unified Project Management Office – Bridges Management Cluster (UPMO-BMC), led by Project Director Rodrigo I. Delos Reyes, with Acting Project Manager Norifel Teddie G. Cadiang and Project Engineer John Christian T. Gaden, the Bucana Bridge will serve as a crucial alternative route for Davao City’s growing vehicle volume, alleviating traffic congestion in the urban road network.

This bridge, part of the Davao City Coastal Road, features cutting-edge structural elements and engineering innovations. It is expected to enhance connectivity within the city and form an integral part of the coastal bypass road stretching from Roxas Avenue to Bago Aplaya.

Funded by a P3.126 billion China Aid Grant and constructed by China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), the project is set to unlock new economic and development opportunities for Davao City.

Joining the inspection last week were UPMO-BMC Project Director Delos Reyes, UPMO Roads Management Cluster 1 Project Director Benjamin A. Bautista, Stakeholders Relations Service Director Randy R. Del Rosario, and Project Manager Joweto V. Tulaylay.