The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced that it is getting ready to award critical construction segments for the $3.91-billion Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge. Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said that key contracts for sections over Manila Bay will be finalized soon, building on earlier progress like last year’s award for a 1.3-kilometer land approach road in Cavite. The massive infrastructure project is funded through a partnership between the Philippine government and the Asian Development Bank, which provided a $2.11-billion loan.
Once finished, the 32.15-kilometer bridge will create a permanent road link connecting Central Luzon and Calabarzon while bypassing the heavy traffic of Metro Manila. The bridge will feature two large cable-stayed structures alongside kilometers of marine viaducts and connecting roads. Officials highlight that the bridge will drastically cut travel time between Bataan and Cavite from five and a half hours down to just 45 minutes, while also serving as a vital evacuation route during natural disasters.
Because of the extreme engineering complexity of building across Manila Bay, Secretary Dizon acknowledged that the project will not be finished before President Marcos Jr.’s term ends. However, the government expects construction to finish during the following administration, ultimately providing a massive boost to the national economy.
