The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is steadfast in its commitment to maintaining the integrity and enhancing the appeal of the Panguil Bay Bridge in Northern Mindanao.
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain led the inspection on December 14, 2024 of rectification activities for the bridge’s asphalt layer and thermoplastic pavement markings, underscoring the agency’s dedication to safety and quality standards.
Financed through the Korean Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) via the Export-Import Bank of Korea, the Panguil Bay Bridge exemplifies the government’s commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure under the Build Better More program.
In a report to Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Senior Undersecretary Sadain confirmed that the contractor, Namkwang-Kukdong-Gumgwang Joint Venture (NKG JV), has completed the emergency replacement of damaged asphalt pavement at no additional cost to the government. This decision reaffirms the DPWH’s strong stance on contractor accountability in public infrastructure projects.
Joining Senior Undersecretary Sadain during the inspection were Unified Project Management Office (UPMO) Project Directors Teresita V. Bauzon, Soledad R. Florencio, and Benjamin A. Bautista; Misamis Occidental 2nd District Engineer Carol Lyn C. Abinales; and Lanao del Norte 1st District Engineer Aly Khan U. Ali.
To prevent future issues like asphalt pavement deformation and potholes, the DPWH has intensified its anti-overloading operations.
Portable weighing stations, now operating 24/7 at both ends of the bridge in Tangub City and Tubod, are managed by the Misamis Occidental 2nd and Lanao del Norte 1st District Engineering Offices. These efforts aim to protect the longevity of the bridge and ensure its structural integrity.
The DPWH has also required the contractor to submit comprehensive asphalt pavement upgrading plan including a revised asphalt mix design and waterproofing measures for the full replacement and upgrading of the asphalt layer scheduled for early 2025.
Also on December 14, 2024, the DPWH conducted a trial demonstration of the Panguil Bay Bridge’s new aesthetic lighting system.
Featuring energy-efficient LED lights, the system enhances the architectural beauty of Mindanao’s longest sea-crossing bridge while symbolizing progress and connectivity.
“The aesthetic lighting will transform the 3.17-kilometer Panguil Bay Bridge into not just an engineering marvel but also a visual icon, symbolizing unity and development. This initiative will foster tourism and economic growth in Northern Mindanao,” said Senior Undersecretary Sadain.
The lighting system is set to elevate the bridge’s status as both a functional infrastructure and a cultural landmark, inspiring regional pride and attracting more visitors to the area.
Since its opening in September 2024, the Panguil Bay Bridge has dramatically improved connectivity in Mindanao. It has reduced travel time between Tangub City in Misamis Occidental and Tubod in Lanao del Norte from over two hours by ferry to just seven minutes.
The bridge has boosted socio-economic activities, strengthened trade, and enhanced mobility across the region.
Financed through the Korean Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) via the Export-Import Bank of Korea, the Panguil Bay Bridge exemplifies the government’s commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure under the Build Better More program.
