BRIDGE PROJECT. Presidential Assistant for Eastern Mindanao Secretary Leo Tesoro Magno tells reporters on Monday (Dec. 18, 2023) that the Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) project will push through. He noted that there is no single directive issued to stop the project. (PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)
DAVAO CITY – Presidential Assistant for Eastern Mindanao Secretary Leo Tesoro Magno confirmed on Monday that the Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) Project will push through.
In a press briefing here, Magno said there is no single government directive to stop the project.
"I spoke with the Department of Public Works and Highways last month, I asked them about the status of the project and if there is a hindrance to the project. They said the construction will push through,” he added.
Last month, the China Road and Bridge Corp. said that the project is “more than ready” to be implemented amid setbacks concerning right-of-way issues.
“If there are hindrances, we hope to finish and overcome it. For a project to be successful, it is necessary that both private and the public sector understand each other,” Magno said.
The construction of the PHP23.04 billion toll-free, four-lane bridge is being funded through China’s Official Development Assistance, with the original completion target date set in 2027.
Once completed, the 3.98-km. bridge project crossing Pakiputan Strait will have landing points at the Samal Circumferential Road in Barangay Limao, Island Garden City of Samal, and Davao City between the R. Castillo and the Daang Maharlika junction. (PNA)
