The long-awaited inauguration of the Panguil Bay Bridge occurred on Friday, September 27, officially making it the longest bridge in Mindanao at 3.169 kilometers. With a budget of P7.37 billion, this monumental project is poised to transform travel between Tubod and Ozamiz City, reducing the journey time from 2.5 hours to a mere seven minutes. In addition to enhancing connectivity, the bridge promises to bring significant economic benefits to the region.
The Build, Build, Build program, initiated under the Duterte administration, saw the construction of the bridge funded by a loan from the Export-Import Bank of Korea. Originally slated for completion in November 2021, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Dream Realized
Governor Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo celebrated the bridge as a realization of her late father Governor Arsenio A. Quibranza's vision. “This bridge connects the hopes and aspirations of many Filipinos,” she remarked during the inauguration ceremony. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who attended the event, emphasized the bridge's potential to drive economic growth and improve transportation in Mindanao, stating that this project, years in the making, represents a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for local residents.
Economic Opportunities Ahead
Local leaders expressed enthusiasm about the bridge's potential impact on their livelihoods. Fisherman-farmer Frank Bijod shared, “This will allow us to deliver our fish and farm produce much faster,” highlighting the enhanced logistics for local markets. The bridge is expected to open new avenues for trade, facilitating quicker access to the Visayas and beyond.
Supporting Community Development
To maximize the bridge's benefits for the community, a Panguil Bay Bridge Development Council will be established to support those affected by the transition from traditional ferry services. This initiative aims to provide training and new livelihood opportunities, ensuring that the bridge serves as a catalyst for economic revitalization. With its completion, the Panguil Bay Bridge stands as a powerful symbol of progress and hope for the future of Mindanao.
