PBBM inaugurates P8-billion Panguil Bay Bridge, Mindanao’s longest

 

TANGUB CITY, MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL—President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday inaugurated the 3.17-kilometer Panguil Bay Bridge, the longest sea-crossing bridge in Mindanao, aimed at enhancing connectivity and driving economic progress in the region.

Accompanied by First Lady Maria Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-Hwa, and DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain, President Marcos celebrated the completion of this landmark project. Notable attendees included OPAPRU Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr., DND Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, KEXIM Bank Director General Cho In-Kyo, Misamis Occidental Governor Henry S. Oaminal, Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda Q. Dimaporo, and other government officials.

The PHP 8.026 billion Panguil Bay Bridge Project, developed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), connects Tangub City in Misamis Occidental with Tubod town in Lanao del Norte. Construction began on February 28, 2020, and the bridge is now set to reduce travel time between the two provinces from over two hours to just seven minutes.

Previously, travelers faced lengthy journeys of at least 2.5 hours using Roll-On, Roll-Off (RoRo) vessels or a 100-kilometer route via various roads. The Panguil Bay Bridge will not only streamline transport but also facilitate 24/7 mobility of people, goods, and services, significantly boosting economic growth in surrounding areas.

In his keynote address, President Marcos expressed optimism about increased economic activity in both provinces and across Mindanao. “We have long awaited this day, and now our patience has paid off. Today marks the inauguration of the Panguil Bay Bridge Project—a milestone we have eagerly anticipated,” he stated. “We do not shy away from challenges. We have worked diligently, keeping our focus on the purpose of this bridge, which will have a profound ripple effect on local businesses.”

The President noted that the bridge will serve as a gateway for entrepreneurs, fueling growth and prosperity. It features a 360-meter approach road leading to a 1,020-meter bridge on the Tangub side, and a 569-meter road connecting to a 900-meter bridge on the Tubod side. The main bridge includes a 320-meter central span, supported by two 20-meter pylons and enhanced by a lighting system for safety during nighttime travel.

Employing advanced Korean technology, the project utilized innovative techniques for drilling and construction. Funded through a loan agreement with the Korean Export-Import Bank in 2016, the Panguil Bay Bridge is a key component of the Marcos administration’s “Build, Better, More” initiative.

President Marcos thanked the DPWH and its Korean partners for their collaboration, expressing hope for more infrastructure projects to boost economic development. “Let this success be a launchpad for future growth, ensuring that this project opens new doors to progress and prosperity. We are building a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines), connecting every Filipino, no matter how remote.”

Governor Oaminal echoed this sentiment, stating that the bridge symbolizes a new era of connectivity. “We are optimistic about the future, as faster travel will improve access for both businesses and tourists. This bridge has been a dream in our region since the early 1970s.” (SN/PGMO)

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday, September 27, inaugurated the P8-billion Panguil Bay Bridge, now Mindanao’s longest, in a move that could redefine the region’s connectivity and economic landscape. 

Photo Opportunity: President Bongbong Marcos and First Lady Maria Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, along with Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Misamis Occidental Governor Henry S. Oaminal, 2nd District Representative Ando Oaminal, board members, and mayors from the province.