The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has intensified its construction at the twin-tube mountain tunnels of the 45.5-kilometer Davao City Bypass Construction Project, as excavation of the southbound tunnel nears its breakthrough phase.
In an inspection report to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain noted that while the 2.3-kilometer northbound tunnel—marked by a ceremonial breakthrough in April 2025—continues to undergo technical refinements, the parallel southbound tunnel is now only about 32 meters away from breakthrough, expected by this 3rd quarter of 2025. These refinements are being implemented by the Shimizu–Ulticon–Takenaka Joint Venture, in response to evolving ground conditions.
“These intensified measures are designed to ensure ground stability, construction safety, and overall project resilience”, Senior Undersecretary Sadain said.
On July 18, 2025, Senior Undersecretary Sadain, along with Unified Project Management Office) - Roads Management Cluster 1(UPMO-RMC1) Project Director Benjamin A. Bautista, conducted a site inspection of Contract Package I-1 which includes the twin-tube two-lane tunnels, a key engineering feature of the entire bypass road.
Joining the inspection were Project Director Rodrigo I. Delos Reyes of the UPMO Bridges Management Cluster, which is currently overseeing the construction of the Samal Island-Davao Connector Bridge and the Bucana (Davao River) Bridge; UPMO Buildings and Special Projects Management Cluster Project Director Soledad R. Florencio; and former UPMO-RMC 1 Project Director Virgilio C. Castillo.
Contract Package I-1, which spans from Sta. 12+800 to Sta. 23+500, has reached 60.64% physical completion, making it one of the most advanced sections of the project to date.
In addition to the twin-tube tunnels, this segment includes a 7.9-kilometer four-lane road; three pairs of bridges totaling 500 meters in length—including the Davao River Bridge; two underpasses; two overpasses; 12 box culverts; and four at-grade intersections.
The twin tunnels represent a historic milestone as the Philippines’ first long-distance road mountain tunnel system—marking a significant leap in the nation’s infrastructure development.
Once completed, the Davao City Bypass Construction Project—connecting the Davao–Digos Section of the Maharlika Highway to the Davao–Agusan National Highway in Panabo City—is expected to significantly enhance regional mobility and substantially reduce travel time between Davao City, Panabo City, and nearby areas.
The project is jointly funded by the Government of the Philippines and Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) through Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Loan Agreements PH-P261, PH-P273 and PH-P282.
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