DAVAO CITY (October 20) — A ₱37-billion infrastructure push is set to reshape Mindanao’s road network as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and World Bank team up with local governments for the Mindanao Transport Connectivity Improvement Project (MTCIP).
The DPWH convened the first project steering committee meeting on October 10 in Cagayan de Oro City to fast-track the upgrading of key transport corridors across Northern Mindanao, the Davao Region, and Central Mindanao.
“This is not just a DPWH or World Bank project—it is a Mindanaoan project,” said DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain. “The overwhelming support from LGUs ensures it will be felt where it matters most: in communities.”
Co-financed by the World Bank (₱25.46B) and the Philippine government (₱11.54B), the MTCIP will modernize 422 kilometers of the Cagayan de Oro–Davao–General Santos corridor and rehabilitate three major farm-to-market roads totaling 128 kilometers.
The project begins its design phase in January 2026, with construction targeted for 2027. It includes climate-resilient infrastructure, digital mapping, and integrity safeguards to ensure transparency and long-term sustainability.
Local leaders from Mindanao’s key provinces and cities have pledged support, seeing the project as a critical step toward stronger connectivity, safer travel, and more inclusive growth.
