DAVAO CITY (April 29) — A significant milestone in Mindanao’s infrastructure development was achieved on Monday as officials celebrated the breakthrough of the northbound tunnel of the Davao City Bypass Construction Project in Barangay Waan, signaling a new era for regional connectivity and economic growth.
The 2.24-kilometer tunnel completed its full excavation on March 14, marking a significant engineering feat and a crucial step in the ₱13.23 billion project, which is jointly funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Philippine government.
The ceremonial breakthrough was attended by top officials, including DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno, Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Nakano Hiromasa, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya, and JICA Chief Representative Takashi Baba.
“This is not just a construction site. It’s a milestone in motion,” said Ambassador Endo, highlighting the deepening Japan-Philippines partnership.
The bypass project, particularly Package I-1, spans 10.7 kilometers, connecting the Mintal and Mandug Road intersections through four-lane roadworks, twin tunnels, bridges, overpasses, and underpasses.
Minister Nakano praised the use of advanced Japanese tunneling technology and the transfer of skills to local workers, calling the project a model of international collaboration.
“This bypass is a critical part of building a better Mindanao — a future of stronger connectivity, greater prosperity, and the fulfillment of long-held dreams,” said Magno.
“Projects like this give us hope that Mindanao is finally becoming not just a Land of Promise, but a Land of Fulfillment,” Magno emphasized.
The southbound tunnel is now 91.28% complete, with only 196 meters remaining. Once operational, the bypass is expected to halve the travel time between Digos City and Panabo City, reducing congestion and enabling the faster movement of goods and people.
Bonoan highlighted the broader economic impacts, noting that the project will lower transportation costs, support tourism, and stimulate agricultural and industrial development across the region.
“This is more than just a road, it is a foundation for inclusive growth across Mindanao,” Bonoan said.
In closing, Secretary Magno thanked all partners and stakeholders for their continued commitment, “We thank JICA, the Government of Japan, Secretary Bonoan and DPWH, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and everyone involved.
The Davao City Bypass is part of the broader ‘Build Better, More’ agenda of the Marcos administration. It serves as a symbol of long-awaited progress for the people of Mindanao.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
