The Bucana Bridge Project, also known as the Davao River Bridge Project, is now nearly 80% complete, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). This 1.34-kilometer, four-lane, six-span structure is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion in Davao City.
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain inspected the project on April 11, 2025, alongside Unified Project Management Office-Bridges Management Cluster (UPMO-BMC) Project Director Rodrigo Delos Reyes. Sadain reported that preparations are underway for the full connection of the bridge’s 480.20-meter extradosed superstructure. The installation of 10 stay cables at Pier 2, which will support the bridge deck, has been completed, while concrete pouring of segmental box girders and cable stressing at other piers are progressing steadily.
Funded through an Official Development Assistance (ODA) grant from the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the Bucana Bridge is part of the Davao City Coastal Road network. It was initiated under the Build, Build, Build Program of the Duterte administration and is being implemented by the UPMO-BMC.
The P3.126-billion project is designed to accommodate approximately 35,000 vehicles daily once operational. “This new route is expected to divert traffic from congested urban roads and provide an efficient east-west connection across the city,” Sadain stated.
He highlighted that these milestones have been achieved within just 16 months since the project commenced in November 2023. Sadain also emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards throughout the remaining phases of construction to ensure the bridge’s structural integrity.
The Bucana Bridge is expected to be fully operational by November 2025. Sadain described the bridge as a vital infrastructure landmark poised to enhance connectivity across Davao City’s coastal areas. “The bridge will drive regional economic growth, improve agricultural logistics, and support tourism and access to essential services,” he said.
