DPWH assures legal, environmental compliance in Samal-Davao bridge construction
By Trixee Rosel
At A Glance
- DPWH is responding to the Supreme Court's Writ of Kalikasan on the Samal-Davao bridge.
- Construction is ongoing and complies with legal and environmental requirements.
- The 3.98-km bridge is 38% complete as of June 2025.
- The project secured an Environmental Compliance Certificate before construction.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is preparing its response to the Supreme Court’s Writ of Kalikasan on the Samal Island–Davao City Connector (SIDC) Bridge Project and assured that construction is proceeding in accordance with legal and environmental regulations.
In a statement, the DPWH said its Legal Service is reviewing the petition and will submit a verified return within 10 calendar days as ordered by the Court.
The agency emphasized that the project followed proper procedures from the outset and will continue unless suspended by a lawful court directive.
As of June 2025, the 3.98-kilometer bridge is 38 percent complete, with all foundation works finished on the Samal and marine sections, and construction ongoing on the Davao City side.
The DPWH confirmed that the project secured an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) prior to construction and remains fully compliant with its conditions.
The alignment was finalized after a 16-month feasibility study conducted by internationally accredited consultants through competitive bidding and stakeholder consultations.
The agency said extensive environmental, technical, and social assessments were undertaken to ensure a balance between development and ecological protection.
Once completed, the bridge is expected to cut travel time between Davao City and Samal Island from 30 minutes by ferry to five minutes by land, improving connectivity, tourism, and emergency response.