The long-awaited Davao-Samal Bridge, officially known as the Samal Island-Davao City Connector Bridge, continues to move forward as one of the biggest infrastructure projects in Southern Mindanao.

According to the Philippine Information Agency, the bridge has reached 62.223% actual accomplishment and the Department of Public Works and Highways has expressed confidence that the project can be completed before the end of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term in 2028. The project is being funded under a ₱20.8-billion loan agreement with China through the China International Development Cooperation Agency. Source: Philippine Information Agency⁠

SunStar Davao also reported that as of June 25, 2026, the bridge was at 61.334% completion, slightly ahead of its target for that period. However, DPWH-Davao also mentioned a funding concern: the agency requested ₱4.86 billion, but only ₱314 million had been received so far, meaning additional funding may still be needed to keep the work moving smoothly. Source: SunStar Davao⁠

The target completion date remains around September 2028, although officials have noted that funding and right-of-way matters could affect the timeline. Still, DPWH has denied rumors that the project was stopped or abandoned, saying construction continues and work is ongoing in several sections.

Once completed, the bridge will create a direct road connection between Davao City and the Island Garden City of Samal. For ordinary residents, this means easier travel for work, school, health services, supplies, and family visits. For businesses, it can lower transport delays and help goods move faster between the island and the mainland.

Tourism may be one of the biggest winners. Samal is already known for its beaches, resorts, and island attractions, but access still depends heavily on ferry travel. A permanent bridge can make weekend trips, hotel bookings, food businesses, transport services, and tourism-related jobs more active. For Davao City, the bridge may also strengthen its role as the main gateway to Samal and nearby tourism destinations.

Overall, the Davao-Samal Bridge is more than a transport project. It is a major connection point for people, trade, tourism, and long-term regional growth.

Sources:

Philippine Information Agency: DPWH vows to finish bridge before 2028
https://pia.gov.ph/news/dpwh-vows-to-finish-samal-island-davao-city-bridge-before-pbbms-term-ends/

SunStar Davao: DPWH says work continues despite budget concerns
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/dpwh-firm-on-davsam-bridge-construction-work-continuity

DPWH official project/news page
https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/news/34591