The PHP23 billion Davao-Samal Bridge project is already on its final stages, Mayor Sara Z. Duterte said during her State of the City Address (SOCA).

“We encourage everyone to support this project and for the Sanggunian and the relevant departments of the city government to issue the necessary documents and permits, subject to thorough review,” Mayor Sara said.

Duterte said the project is currently on the second stage of feasibility study, and that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has finalized the bridge’s design.

“We are asking National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Ernesto Pernia to help us on this project. The papers are already in the central office,” she said.

This hosts the other part of the bridge that would connect the ongoing Coastal Bypass Road project, which provides connectivity within and outside of Davao City.

With a length of about 2,830 meters, the mayor said the bridge would provide vital link for trade and tourism for both areas through reduced transport cost and faster flow of people, goods and resources.

In January, the younger Duterte jested she will commit suicide if the project remains unfinished by 2022.

Conceptualized forty years ago, the bridge project has been identified as among the big-ticket infrastructure initiatives under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. (This story has been updated to reflect the correct funding amount for the Samal-Davao bridge project) (PNA)