The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Philippines has achieved a milestone in the Davao City Bypass Construction Project (DCBCP), which includes the country’s longest road mountain tunnel.
This 2.3km twin-tube tunnel, a key feature of the 45.5km, four-lane bypass, has reached a crucial stage with the connection of the north and south portal ends of the northbound tunnel.
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Located in a mountainous terrain, DCBCP is set to offer a safer alternative route for motorists, aiming to decongest traffic in Davao City and enhance regional connectivity.
The project is part of the national government’s Build Better More programme, aiming to modernise the domestic transport network while supporting inclusive development.
DPWH senior undersecretary Emil Sadain reported the construction progress to secretary Manuel Bonoan, noting that the northbound tunnel’s completion, along with the ongoing excavation of the southbound tunnel, marks significant progress.
The southbound tunnel is now 91% complete, with only 202m remaining.
The project is being financed through a loan agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency and local government funds.
On 11 April 2025, Sadain led the tunnel inspection under Contract Package (CP) I-1, which is 58.7% complete.
The Shimizu-Ulticon-Takenaka joint venture is responsible for this 10.7km section. The team also reviewed the progress of other contract packages, including several bridges under construction that are integral to the project’s completion.
DCBCP, once completed, is expected to significantly minimise travel time between Toril and Panabo City, stimulate economic growth, and improve logistics.
The locally funded sections of the bypass road – CP II-1 and CP II-2 – have reached completion rates of 72.83% and 63.89%, respectively.
CP II-1 covers 2.54km and includes a 1.3km four-lane stretch and seven bridges. With a budget of 4.33bn pesos ($75.8m), it is expected to be completed by the first quarter (Q1) of 2026.
CP II-2, measuring 3.52km and costing 4.60bn pesos, is projected to be finished by Q3 2026.
Progress continues on other sections, CP I-2 and CP I-3, and procurement for Package II-3 is set to begin soon.
Last month, DPWH completed two road-widening projects in Del Gallego, Camarines Sur, to help ease traffic congestion.
