
DAVAO CITY (July 21) – The construction of the Samal Island–Davao City Connector (SIDC) Bridge has reached 40% completion. Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain reported the progress to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, following a site inspection on July 18, 2025. He reaffirmed the Department of Public Works and Highways’ commitment to building inclusive, climate-resilient, and environmentally responsible infrastructure.
The SIDC Bridge is a 4.76-kilometer, four-lane, toll-free extradosed bridge that will cut travel time between Davao City and Samal Island from 55 minutes by ferry to just 4.5 minutes, and accommodate up to 25,000 vehicles daily.
The bridge connects R. Castillo–Daang Maharlika Junction in Davao City to the Samal Circumferential Road, with landing points in Barangay Vicente Hizon Sr. and Barangay Limao. Its structural features include marine and land viaducts, approach roads, ramps, and a 275-meter main bridge span with 47 meters of vertical clearance to allow safe maritime passage. The bridge also features 77-meter-high pylons, complying with aviation height limits set by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
Environmental safeguards are a central part of the project. Measures such as silt curtains, sediment control systems, and eco-friendly construction practices have been implemented to protect the marine ecosystems of the Pakiputan Strait. The DPWH works closely with the DENR, whose divers monitor seagrass beds, marine habitats, and water quality.
The project enjoys strong backing from the Regional Development Council, the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte, and the local governments of Davao City and Island Garden City of Samal.
Once completed, the SIDC Bridge will significantly improve mobility, stimulate tourism, and support economic growth in the Davao Region.