Davao-Samal Bridge receives backing from Baste in response to SC's Writ of Kalikasan.
The construction of the Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) Project, a P23-billion, nearly 4-kilometer, four-lane toll-free extradosed bridge, has faced delays due to environmental concerns. The Supreme Court's issuance of a Writ of Kalikasan on July 1, 2025, has highlighted potential environmental risks or compliance questions related to the project.
Despite the delays, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) maintains that the project has the necessary Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), assuring that all environmental regulations are being followed.
Local leaders, such as Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte and Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos) Mayor Lemuel "Toto" Reyes, have expressed support for the bridge project. Duterte has expressed concern over the delays, emphasizing the negative impact these setbacks may have on timely completion. He supports the continuation of the project, focusing on its importance for connectivity and development between Davao City and Samal.
Reyes, on the other hand, strongly defends the bridge project, underscoring it as a “vital infrastructure” that will boost connectivity, mobility, and economic opportunities for Samal residents. He calls for proper and responsible implementation to ensure the project benefits the local community. Reyes remains hopeful despite the challenges, stressing that the project is a long-term investment for the benefit of both Samal and Davao City.
The SIDC Bridge aims to reduce travel time from 30 minutes by ferry to about 5 minutes by land, significantly enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration. As of July 2025, construction progress stands at 38%, with foundational works largely completed.
The SIDC Project is managed by the DPWH Unified Project Management Office-Bridges Management Cluster and implemented by China Road and Bridge Corporation. The bridge will span 4.76 kilometers, featuring a 275-meter main span, 47-meter vertical clearance for marine traffic, and a 1.62-kilometer marine section supported by 73-meter-high pylons.
Duterte has emphasized that true environmentalism should balance ecological concerns with the need for inclusive progress that would help lift people out of poverty. He has called on all stakeholders to consider the broader impact of the Supreme Court's decision on the growth and lives of Dabawenyos and Samaleños who would benefit from the SIDC Project.
In addition, Duterte has mentioned that the SIDC Project promises reduced transport costs, increased trade and tourism, and more jobs for local communities. He has reiterated the importance of responsible and inclusive development for the SIDC Project and expressed hope that the necessary requirements will be addressed, and construction of the SIDC Project will proceed.
The DENR-Davao has acknowledged the Supreme Court's issuance of the Writ of Kalikasan and promised to submit accurate, complete, and science-based information. Duterte has stated that delays in the construction of the SIDC Project are due to environmental concerns raised by those whose business interests are most affected. He has also emphasized that the rule of law must be upheld, and the legal process followed for the SIDC Project.
The Supreme Court has ordered several entities to file a verified return regarding the SIDA Project within ten days. The DPWH-Davao has confirmed it would continue the project pending any formal suspension. The SIDC Project, if completed, is expected to significantly reduce travel time, boost tourism, and promote economic activity across the Davao Region.
- The Department of Public Works and Highways has assured that the SIDC Project, including the Samal Island-Davao City Connector, has the necessary Environmental Compliance Certificate, emphasizing adherence to all environmental regulations.
- Local leaders, like Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte and Island Garden City of Samal Mayor Lemuel "Toto" Reyes, express support for the bridge project, viewing it as a significant driver of connectivity, economic growth, and environmental science-based development.
- The SIDC Bridge, once completed, promises reduced transport costs, increased trade, tourism, and job opportunities, thereby contributing to the general news of regional integration and inclusivity.
- However, the Supreme Court's Writ of Kalikasan has sparked debates and concerns related to potential environmental risks and compliance issues, necessitating the proper implementation and policy-and-legislation consideration to ensure balance between ecological concerns and sustainable development.
- In the wake of the construction delays, Duterte has emphasized the importance of responsible and inclusive development, urging all stakeholders to consider the broader impact of the Supreme Court's decision on the lives and growth of Dabawenyos and Samaleños who will benefit from the SIDC Project.
- Government entities, including the DPWH and DENR, remain committed to upholding the rule of law, submitting science-based information, and following the necessary policy-and-legislation and environmental-science procedures, with the ultimate goal of seeing the SIDC Project proceed for the betterment of the Davao Region's health, industry, and climate-change initiatives.
