In Mindanao, where distance can limit opportunities, bridges do more than cross rivers-they bring people and communities closer together.
The opening of the Carmen and Lumayong Parallel Bridges on Monday, marks an important step in improving connections between regions and making daily travel easier.
Residents of Kabacan and Carmen welcomed the new bridges, which replace old structures along the Bukidnon-Cotabato Road, a key route for the movement of people, goods, and services.
The project, carried out by the Department of Public Works and Highways 12 (DPWH 12) with the Provincial Government of Cotabato, is part of a wider effort to upgrade infrastructure and improve regional connectivity.
DPWH 12 Director Kayamuambao D. Dia emphasized that the bridges are not merely replacements but long-term investments designed to meet increasing transport demands and sustain regional growth.
“These two bridges are important links along the Bukidnon–Cotabato Road, which connects Northern Mindanao (Region 10) and SOCCSKSARGEN (Region 12), passing through key areas in Cotabato Province,” Dia said.
The project was implemented in two phases. Phase 1, which began on December 18, 2020, focused on foundational works, including deep piling and substructure construction. Phase 2, which began on September 17, 2024, completed the superstructure, roadway components, slope protection, and safety features, including solar-powered streetlights to improve visibility and security at night.
With a total investment of approximately P499.86 million, the bridges underscore the government’s continued commitment to building resilient infrastructure that supports both mobility and economic development across Mindanao.
Dia said the upgraded structures are expected to significantly improve traffic flow and travel efficiency along the corridor.
“These bridges are expected to double traffic capacity, ease congestion on aging structures, improve road safety, and ensure more reliable transport of goods and people between regions,” he said.
During the inauguration, Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza described the project as a milestone in enhancing the island’s transport network.
She noted that the initiative began in 2020 under former President Rodrigo Duterte and was funded in 2023.
“These projects strengthen inter-provincial connectivity between Bukidnon and Cotabato and enhance inter-regional access across Mindanao,” Mendoza said.
She also highlighted the strategic importance of the Bukidnon–Cotabato corridor, advocating for its reclassification from a secondary to a primary national highway due to its key role in linking multiple regions, including Northern Mindanao and parts of the Bangsamoro region.
Beyond mobility, Mendoza pointed to the economic and security benefits of the project, particularly for agricultural industries in Carmen, such as palm oil and coconut.
“The improvement of this bridge will make it easier for our law enforcers to quickly respond and maintain peace and security in the area,” she added.
For residents, the impact is already being felt. In Barangay Lumayong, community members expressed gratitude for the long-awaited infrastructure, noting how it addresses long-standing flooding issues that previously disrupted daily life.
“Dati binabaha kami dito. Kaya nagpasalamat kami sa butihing gobernadora na nagpagawa nito para sa amin,” a resident said.
With the completion of the Carmen and Lumayong Parallel Bridges, officials said Mindanao is moving closer to a more connected future where infrastructure not only links regions but also uplifts communities and drives inclusive growth.
