COURTESY: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)
In an era marked by rapid urbanization and infrastructural demands, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has achieved a significant milestone with the final concrete pouring for the Bucana Bridge superstructure in Davao City. This monumental event, which took place on July 18, 2025, signifies the near completion of the major structural components of the Bucana Bridge, a pivotal infrastructure project designed to enhance connectivity across the Davao River. Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain, overseeing infrastructure flagship projects under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s "Build Better More" initiative, spearheaded the ceremonial event, emphasizing the project’s importance for regional development.
The Bucana Bridge, also known as the China Aid Localized Project, embodies the aspirations of the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision. With a total contract cost of ₱3.126 billion, the project is funded by a grant from the Government of the People’s Republic of China under the Official Development Assistance (ODA) program. As a crucial component of the Davao City Coastal Road Network, the bridge aims to alleviate congestion in downtown Davao, thereby enhancing the daily lives of Filipinos through improved mobility. The bridge features a sophisticated four-lane, six-span extradosed design that stretches approximately 480 meters in length, with a total project length of 1,340 meters including approach roads.
A Catalyst for Change: The Impact of the Bucana Bridge
The Bucana Bridge is more than just a physical structure; it represents a transformative step toward improved infrastructure and increased economic activity in the region. By connecting Barangays 76-A Bucana and Matina Aplaya, the bridge is poised to facilitate smoother traffic flow, ultimately expediting the movement of goods and people. Senior Undersecretary Sadain highlighted the significance of this final concrete pour, stating, “This final concrete pour marks a key moment — the physical structure of the bridge is nearly complete.” Such a statement underscores the bridge's role as a catalyst for change, fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents in Davao City.
As the project moves toward its scheduled completion by October 2025, various final works will continue, including pavement finishing, lighting installation, and safety features. The project implementation is meticulously managed by the DPWH Unified Project Management Office (UPMO), under the guidance of Project Director Rodrigo I. Delos Reyes and his dedicated team. Their unwavering commitment to quality and timely execution reflects the broader objectives of the Marcos administration to bolster national infrastructure.
The completion of the Bucana Bridge superstructure marks a significant advancement in Davao City’s infrastructure development. As the community eagerly anticipates the bridge's opening, it is evident that this project will play a vital role in shaping the future of the region, enhancing connectivity, and fostering socio-economic growth for years to come.