The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPHW) has assured the public that the highest standards of quality, safety, and environmental stewardship have been complied in the construction of the Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) bridge project.

DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain said the project’s alignment and design are based on a comprehensive environmental assessment aimed at minimizing its impact on marine biodiversity and water flow.

“To maintain water quality during the construction of bridge columns and foundations, silt curtains and sediment control measures have been deployed. Construction practices follow environmental best practices, including the immediate removal of debris or concrete waste from marine areas,” Sadain said.

It can be recalled that the Supreme Court (SC) issued a writ of kalikasan against the project following a petition by several environmental groups claiming that the bridge construction could harm the environment.

However, the Court of Appeals (CA) denied the groups’ request for a temporary environmental protection order (TEPO), allowing the project to continue.

As of now, the project is said to be 40 percent complete.

Once finished, the bridge is expected to accommodate up to 25,000 vehicles daily and travel time across the Davao Gulf will be reduced from 55 minutes by ferry to just 4.5 minutes.