Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 16, The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Philippines has made significant progress on the Davao City Bypass Construction Project (DCBCP), a 45.5km, four-lane bypass featuring the country’s longest road mountain tunnel. This 2.3km twin-tube tunnel, located in mountainous terrain, has reached a key milestone with the connection of the north and south portal ends of the northbound tunnel, advancing efforts to reduce traffic congestion in Davao City and improve regional connectivity.

The southbound tunnel is now 91% complete.

The project, part of the national government’s infrastructure development program, aims to provide a safer and more efficient route for motorists, cutting travel time between Toril and Panabo City while supporting economic growth and logistics. DPWH senior undersecretary Emil Sadain briefed secretary Manuel Bonoan on the progress, stating: “The completion of the northbound tunnel and the ongoing excavation of the southbound tunnel reflect steady advancement.” The southbound tunnel is 91% complete, with 202m left to excavate.

Funded by a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency and local government resources, the project’s Contract Package (CP) I-1, covering a 10.7km section, is 58.7% complete as of 11 April 2025. The Shimizu-Ulticon-Takenaka joint venture is overseeing this segment, which includes the tunnel and several bridges. Sadain led an inspection to review progress, noting that other contract packages, including CP I-2 and CP I-3, are also advancing, with procurement for CP II-3 set to start soon.

Locally funded sections, CP II-1 and CP II-2, have achieved completion rates of 72.83% and 63.89%, respectively. CP II-1, spanning 2.54km with a 1.3km four-lane road and seven bridges, is budgeted at 4.33 billion pesos ($75.8m) and is expected to be finished by Q1 2026. CP II-2, covering 3.52km at a cost of 4.60 billion pesos, is slated for completion by Q3 2026.

In a related development, DPWH recently completed two road-widening projects in Del Gallego, Camarines Sur, to alleviate traffic bottlenecks, further demonstrating its commitment to enhancing the nation’s transport network. The DCBCP’s completion is poised to deliver lasting benefits, fostering economic activity and improving connectivity across the region.