P23-billion connector 62% done as officials prepare roads, power and wastewater systems
Photo: PIA
DAVAO CITY (August 25) — The bridge that could transform Samal Island’s future is taking shape—but officials are already preparing for the traffic, tourists, investors and new residents it could bring.
The P23-billion Samal Island-Davao City Connector is being pushed toward its 2028 completion target, with Regional Development Council XI Chair and Davao del Norte Gov. Edwin Jubahib saying the timeline has been confirmed by national economic planning officials.
“Mismong si Secretary confirmed mahuman gyud ang tulay within 2028,” Jubahib told reporters in Davao City.
The 4.76-kilometer, four-lane bridge was about 62 percent complete as of July, putting one of Mindanao’s most anticipated infrastructure projects within sight of completion.
But the race is not without a funding hurdle.
The Department of Public Works and Highways sought about P4.86 billion for the project this year but received only P314 million. Jubahib said government equity may still be needed, although national planning authorities have already identified a target budget for the project.
For Samal, however, the bridge is more than a transport project.
It could become a gateway to a much bigger tourism and investment boom—and a test of whether the island can handle rapid growth.
Jubahib said investors are already scouting for people and sites for possible businesses and settlements on the island.
That has prompted officials to prepare before the bridge opens.
One priority is Samal’s road network. The island’s two-lane circumferential road is being eyed for expansion to four lanes, with sidewalks and drainage systems included in the plans.
Davao del Norte District Rep. JM Lagdameo has committed to prioritizing funding requests for the road expansion, Jubahib said.
Power capacity is another concern, but the island has gained an additional lifeline with 50 megawatts delivered through a submarine cable installed by Davao Light and Power Company.
Then there is the problem that tourists rarely see until it becomes an environmental crisis: wastewater.
Authorities are studying a centralized sewage and wastewater treatment facility to prevent increasing human waste from polluting Samal’s waters.
The preparations reflect a simple reality: the bridge could bring Samal unprecedented growth—but without enough roads, power and waste facilities, that growth could overwhelm the island it is meant to help.
For officials, the goal is no longer simply to finish the bridge.
It is to make sure Samal is ready when the bridge opens the floodgates.
