Guicam Bridge in Zamboanga Sibugay Nears Completion, Boosting Mindanao Connectivity

ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY — Construction of the Guicam Bridge, a vital infrastructure project linking Olutanga Island to mainland Zamboanga Sibugay, is rapidly nearing completion promising improved mobility, economic integration, and regional development across the Zamboanga Peninsula.

As of July 4, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reports that the bridge project has reached 87.90% completion, with all major foundation works including the installation of 115 bored piles now finished.

The ₱1.155-billion project, a key component of the Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project (IGCMRSP) funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is being implemented under the government’s Build Better More program. It aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to achieve inclusive and sustainable development.

DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain, who heads the department’s flagship projects, personally inspected the construction progress and directed the contractor, Grace Construction Corporation, along with joint venture partner Tianyuan Construction Group Corporation, and supervision consultant Renardet S.A. Consulting Engineers, to intensify work on girder installation and concrete decking.

He was joined during the site visit by UPMO Roads Management Cluster II Project Director Teresita V. Bauzon, Stakeholders Relations Service Director Randy R. Del Rosario, UPMO Project Managers Evangeline L. Carabal and Emmanuel M. Supe, and Project Engineer Barley H. Sali. Also present was former Project Director Sharif Madsmo H. Hasim, who initially led the project and shared technical insights on its development.

Currently, construction is focused on the superstructure, with work accelerating on girder launching and deck slab concreting. To date, four girders have been successfully launched at Span 1 (Abutment A to Pier 1), with the corresponding deck slab now completed. Girder fabrication is progressing steadily, with 40 out of 48 girders finished and 36 units already stressed and grouted.

On the Olutanga Island (Approach B) side, retaining wall and embankment construction are ongoing, while pavement and drainage works are in progress on the mainland (Approach A) side.

Spanning 540.80 meters across the Canalizo Strait, the Guicam Bridge will feature 12 spans of Type VI Prestressed Concrete Girders, with approach roads measuring 389.60 meters on the mainland and 277.62 meters on the island. Designed with a 14.80-meter height and 24.00-meter width navigational clearance, the bridge is built to accommodate maritime traffic below.

“This bridge is not just about infrastructure it’s about transforming lives. Once completed, it will significantly cut travel time, improve access to essential services, and stimulate inclusive growth throughout southwestern Mindanao,” said Undersecretary Sadain.

The Guicam Bridge stands as a symbol of connectivity and progress bringing Mindanao’s islands and people closer than ever before.

Source: DPWH

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