“These bridges will improve mobility, expand regional access, and make transportation more efficient and convenient. They will also support stronger and more inclusive economic growth,” Cotabato Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza said during the inauguration on Monday, May 4.
Mendoza explained that the bridges will enhance inter-provincial connectivity between Bukidnon and Cotabato, while also improving inter-regional access across Mindanao linking Regions 10, 11, and 12,as well as special geographic areas in the SGA-BARMM.
She added that the infrastructure will help spur economic activity, particularly in Carmen, which hosts major agro-industrial operations including palm oil production and coconut processing. The town is home to Univanich Carmen Palm Oil Corporation, one of the country’s key players in the palm oil industry.
The municipalities of Carmen and Kabacan play strategic roles in Cotabato’s agri-industrial development zone and serve as vital links along the northern highland corridor of Region 12.
Mendoza expressed hope that the bridges will be recognized not merely as national highways but as part of a primary road network that promotes long-term connectivity and sustainability.
She also noted that improved access will benefit securityoperations, citing the presence of the 602nd Brigade, as law enforcers will beable to respond more quickly across affected areas.
The governor thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Mindanao Development Authority, and members of Congress for their roles in completing the projects. She also highlighted that the twin bridge initiative began in 2020 during the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Through lobbying efforts led by Mendoza and 3rd District Representative Ma. Alana Samantha Taliño Santos, funding was secured through the DPWH Central Office under then Secretary Manuel Bonoan, with the project budget finalized in 2024. Construction followed, leading to its completion this year.
According to DPWH Region 12 Director Cayamombao D. Dia,the Carmen Bridge spans 240 meters with a total cost of P266.375 million for Phases 1 and 2. Meanwhile, the Lumayong Bridge measures 180 meters and costs P233.482 million for both phases.
Construction of both bridges began simultaneously on December 18, 2020.
“The combined investment for both parallel bridge projects amounts to approximately P499.86 million, reflecting the government’s substantial commitment to improving inter-regional infrastructure in Mindanao,” Dia said.
For his part, Ollie Dagala of the Mindanao Development Authority said the bridges will ensure faster and more secure transport of agricultural goods.
“With the new bridges, transport of goods is expected to be faster, reducing post-harvest losses and translating to better income for farmers and improved food security in the region,” he said.
Local residents also welcomed the development. Wahab Kadalim, a 65-year-old tricycle driver from Kabacan, said in the vernacular that the bridge is a major solution to the area’s long-standing traffic congestion problem.
For Miriam Mamato, 65, a farmer from Kabacan, the bridges are a significant boost for ordinary commuters and the movement of goods. Judy Quiros
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