The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced that the Bucana Bridge, a major infrastructure project spanning the Davao River, is set to open to motorists by the last quarter of 2025.
DPWH senior undersecretary Emil K. Sadain reported that the 1,340-meter bridge is 94 percent complete, with the main superstructure finished. Remaining tasks include the installation of traffic and pedestrian barriers, final painting of pylons, waterproofing, and asphalt overlay. Simultaneous work on approach roads and related drainage and safety systems is also ongoing.
The Bucana Bridge is part of the Davao City coastal bypass road project, a strategic link connecting the city’s eastern and western coastal districts, currently divided by the Davao River. Once operational, it is expected to ease traffic congestion in downtown Davao, particularly by providing a direct route between Barangays 76-A Bucana and Matina Aplaya, improving daily commutes and logistics flow.
Funded through a ₱3.126-billion China aid grant, and built in partnership with the China Road and Bridge Corp. under the supervision of DPWH’s Unified Project Management Office – Bridges Management Cluster, the bridge underscores the Philippines’ push for resilient infrastructure and international collaboration.
“This bridge is not only vital to Davao’s infrastructure network but also a testament to strong bilateral cooperation,” said Sadain, noting its alignment with the government’s Bagong Pilipinas vision to spur regional development and improve the quality of life through modern infrastructure.
Construction began in November 2023, and once completed, the bridge will offer a faster, safer, and more efficienttransport option for both commercial and public road users.
