DPWH Executive Oversees Final Inspection of Panguil Bay Bridge, Mindanao’s Longest, Before September Inauguration

Published

8 months ago

August 24, 2024

Contributor

As the Panguil Bay Bridge Project approaches its completion, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain, along with key officials from the Unified Project Management Office (UPMO) Operations, conducted an on-site inspection on August 23, 2024, to ensure Mindanao’s longest bridge completion is on track for the target September inauguration.

The 3.17-kilometer bridge, which will connect Tangub City in Misamis Occidental and Tubod in Lanao del Norte, is a landmark infrastructure project set to significantly reduce travel time between these two (2) provinces in Northern Mindanao.

The current two-and-a-half-hour journey, which relies on roll-on/roll-off vessels, will be cut down to just seven (7) minutes by land once the bridge is operational.

In his report to Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Senior Undersecretary Sadain said that the detailed engineering design and civil works is more than 97.5 percent completed to date.

Panguil Bay Bridge project includes the following major components: a 360-meter approach road leading to a 1,020-meter approach bridge at Tangub City side; a 569-meter approach road connects to a 900-meter approach bridge on the Tubod side; and a Main Bridge with central span that stretches 320 meters, supported by two (2) pylons, each anchored by six (6) cable stays. Additionally, two (2) observatory bays are positioned on both the Tangub and Tubod sides of the pylons for facilitating regular maintenance and ensuring the structural integrity of the bridge.

During the inspection, Senior Undersecretary Sadain, along with UPMO Project Directors Teresita V. Bauzon, Soledad R. Florencio, Ramon A. Arriola III, Benjamin A. Bautista and Rodrigo I. Delos Reyes conducted a detailed assessment of key bridge elements, including the deck slab, approach roads, barrier and median strip concrete, metal guardrail, and ancillary structures.

Also present at the inspection are past UPMO Project Directors namely Sharif Madsmo H. Hasim and Virgilio C. Castillo, Stakeholders Relations Service Director Randy R. Del Rosario; Project Managers Shirley O. Castro, Evangeline L. Carabal, and Norman I. Puy; and Engineers Abdul Khalid C. Lumangcolob, Oliver Hernandez and Ken John B. Barcelona.

The team closely monitored the progress of crucial finishing activities, with a focus on the application of waterproofing and asphalt paving, expansion joint works, the implementation of aesthetic and electrical lighting systems, line markings and the installation of road signage.

In addition to reviewing the physical aspects of the project, the team engaged with the design and build contractor Namkwang Engineering & Construction Corporation along with the project consultant Yooshin Engineering Corporation to discuss the final phases of activities for the upcoming inauguration of the project and any necessary last-minute adjustments to ensure the bridge’s timely completion.
The Panguil Bay Bridge is anticipated to be a transformative project for local transportation and economic activities, said Senior Undersecretary Sadain during the inspection.

Upon completion, it is expected to spur development and improve the quality of life for residents in both provinces.

With the inauguration set for September, the DPWH is working tirelessly to ensure that the project is ready for public use.

The opening of the bridge will mark a significant milestone in the government’s Build Better More infrastructure program, aimed at enhancing connectivity and driving economic growth under Bagong Pilipinas.

The project implemented by DPWH UPMO Roads Management Cluster II (Multilateral), with a total cost of ₱7.375 billion, is financed through a loan agreement between the Government of the Philippines and the Republic of Korea, facilitated by the Korea Export-Import Bank under the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) Loan Agreement No. PHL-18.

Source: DPWH Official Facebook page

Photo Credit: DPWH

default
default
default

Related Topics:DPWH Featured Panguil Bay Bridge

Up Next

Police Launch Massive Raid on Kingdom of Jesus Christ Compound in Davao City in Search of Pastor Quiboloy

Don't Miss

Filipino Students Win Big at First International Nuclear Science Olympiad, Earning Double Gold and Silver Medals

Pagadian

Pagadian City Unveils New Water Park at Baywalk — Now Open to the Public

Published

2 days ago

April 30, 2025

News Team

Pagadian City Water Park Photo taken by Bamz Xeille Dolar

A refreshing new attraction has opened its gates in Pagadian City — the Pagadian City Water Park, situated along the scenic Baywalk in Barangay Santiago. Officially launched today, the facility is now open to the public and is already drawing excitement from locals and nearby residents.

The newly constructed water park offers a variety of family-friendly amenities designed for leisure and recreation. From splash zones for kids to shaded lounging areas, the park adds a vibrant new layer to the city’s popular Baywalk destination.

In a welcome move, all facilities within the park are currently free to use, as there is no ordinance or legislation yet in place allowing the local government to collect usage fees. This makes it a budget-friendly option for families looking to cool off and enjoy quality time outdoors.

City officials expressed optimism about the water park’s potential to boost activity in the Baywalk area, anticipating increased foot traffic and greater public engagement. The project is part of the city’s broader effort to enhance public spaces and promote tourism and recreation within Pagadian.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the new water park and enjoy its offerings while it remains free of charge.

Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or simply want to unwind by the sea, the Pagadian City Water Park is set to become a go-to destination for fun, relaxation, and community gathering.

Man Bitten by Crocodile After Entering Its Enclosure in Zamboanga Sibugay

Published

2 days ago

April 30, 2025

News Team

Screenshots from the video by Garry Berug Bautista | SunStar Davao

ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR — A man from Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay, identified as Eric (also referred to as Brod Eric), was severely injured after being attacked by a crocodile named Lalay when he entered its enclosure, reportedly out of affection for animals.

According to a Facebook post that went viral, Eric lives near the crocodile’s enclosure and has always considered himself an animal lover. He allegedly treats animals of all kinds as friends. On the day of the incident, Eric decided to approach the crocodile’s enclosure and even spoke to the reptile, believing he could interact with it safely.

He initially interpreted the crocodile wagging its tail as a sign of friendliness. Encouraged by this, Eric entered the enclosure. However, the crocodile suddenly bit his leg and dragged him into the water. He was unable to escape and was reportedly tossed around by the crocodile.

Rescue efforts were delayed as the crocodile’s owner took time to arrive, and local police hesitated to intervene, fearing consequences from harming a protected animal. Eric was only released after the owner arrived and managed to call off the crocodile.

Eric is currently being treated for his injuries at Margosatubig Regional Hospital in Zamboanga del Sur.

Contrary to speculation online, Eric is not mentally unstable. He is a graduate of Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) in Zamboanga City, holding a degree in Education. He had previously applied to join the Philippine National Police (PNP), but the application did not proceed due to the recent incident.

The act was not a publicity stunt, according to those close to him, but rather a reflection of his deep compassion for animals—a passion that unfortunately led to this dangerous encounter.

Friends and community members are asking for prayers for his speedy recovery.

Features

How a New Pope Is Chosen: Inside the Papal Conclave

Published

1 week ago

April 23, 2025

News Team

The election of a new pope is one of the most sacred and secretive traditions in the Roman Catholic Church. Known as the papal conclave, this process has been in place for centuries and follows a precise series of steps.

It begins when a pope dies or resigns. In such cases, the Catholic Church enters a period known as sede vacante, Latin for “the seat being vacant.” During this time, the governance of the Church is temporarily overseen by the College of Cardinals.

Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. These cardinals travel to the Vatican and are secluded within the Sistine Chapel. The word “conclave” itself comes from the Latin meaning “with a key,” reflecting the secrecy and isolation of the voting process.

Each day, up to four voting rounds may take place—two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Cardinals write their chosen candidate’s name on a ballot, which they place in a chalice on the altar. A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope.

After each voting session, the ballots are burned. If no decision is reached, black smoke rises from the chapel chimney. White smoke, however, signals that a new pope has been elected.

Once the final vote is cast and a candidate accepts the role, he selects a new papal name. The world is then informed with the iconic announcement: “Habemus Papam”—”We have a pope.” The new pontiff is then introduced on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, marking the start of his papacy.

This ancient process blends tradition, faith, and ceremony, uniting millions of Catholics worldwide in a moment of profound significance.

Photo credit to: ABC News