Davao city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced on Thursday that the 1.3-kilometer Bucana Bridge in Davao City will open to motorists on December 15. The bridge is anticipated to significantly reduce traffic congestion in the city, particularly during the holiday season.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos made this announcement following an inspection of the bridge, which is also known as the Davao River Bridge. The Bucana Bridge is part of the broader Davao City Bypass project and is expected to cut travel time from nearly two hours to just 20 to 25 minutes once it becomes operational.

The bridge, funded by a grant from China, spans 480 meters across the Bucana area and aims to be a key project in reducing traffic congestion in the city. It is anticipated to accommodate around 35,000 vehicles daily, providing a crucial link to alleviate heavy traffic in Davao City's downtown district.

Marcos attributed the efficient construction of the Bucana Bridge to the collaboration between the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and its Chinese contractors, highlighting the advanced technology and cost-effective methods employed. He expressed optimism that motorists will start using the bridge as soon as it opens on December 15.

The President also noted that the entire Davao City bypass, which extends from Toril to Panabo City, is projected to be completed by December 20, 2027. The Davao City Bypass project, which was approved in July 2022, began construction in late 2023 and has been progressing across multiple sections.

The 5.5-kilometer bypass is a four-lane, high-capacity highway designed to ease congestion in Davao City and improve regional connectivity. It is expected to reduce travel time between Toril and Panabo City from one hour and 44 minutes to just 49 minutes. Marcos emphasized that this is one of the four major legacy projects set to be completed in Davao and its surroundings, with several sections of the bypass already opened.