Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte said he respects the Supreme Court Writ of Kalikasan temporarily halting the construction of the Samal Island-Davao City Connector Bridge, a major infrastructure project in Mindanao.

“This bridge is designed to serve ordinary Dabawenyos and Samaleños by providing safer, faster, and more affordable travel between our cities. It reduced transport costs, increased trade and tourism, and more jobs for local communities, Duterte said.

He expressed frustration over the delay and suggested that the legal challenge stems not purely from environmental concerns but from those whose business interests are affected by the bridge’s construction.

“We have waited for this infrastructure for decades. It is disappointing that a project intended to benefit the majority is now facing delays due to environmental concerns raised selectively by those whose business interests are most affected, he said.

Duterte reiterated his commitment to environmental stewardship and urged the public to examine the motivations behind the opposition.

“The petitioner and others who oppose the bridge should reflect on whether their objections genuinely prioritize environmental protection, or merely serve to preserve private commercial interests,” Duterte said.

He added that the project has undergone environmental impact assessments and received necessary clearances and was designed to minimize ecological disruption.

“True environmentalism should balance ecological concerns with the urgent need for inclusive progress that lifts people out of poverty,” Duterte stressed. “We face a halt that serves a few powerful interests while leaving ordinary people waiting.”

Duterte called for unity and constructive dialogue among stakeholders and hoped that the necessary requirements can be addressed for construction to proceed.

“Let us work towards development that is both responsible and inclusive. Progress must serve not just a few, but the greater good, he said.

Thank you. Let us continue with genuine change and development for all.”

The High Court granted the writ following a petition filed by private parties due to environmental concerns regarding the bridge’s construction.

The bridge has been touted as a critical solution to ease connectivity between Davao and Samal that currently relies on ferry services often hampered by congestion and weather conditions.