The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is advancing steadily on the Davao City Bypass Construction Project (DCBCP), with ongoing efforts in tunnel waterproofing and the construction of concrete arch and invert linings for the two (2)-lane northbound and southbound tunnels.
Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain, in-charge of DPWH infrastructure flagship projects, explained that these crucial activities are part of the effort to ensure structural integrity and durability. This is essential to provide a safe and reliable passage for motorists through the 2.3-kilometer twin tube tunnel component of the DCBCP.
The road mountain tunnel is a key part of the ₱13.23 billion DCBCP Contract Package I-1, financed through a Special Terms for Economic Partnership (STEP) Loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
In his report to Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Senior Undersecretary Sadain emphasized that Japan’s engineering expertise and advanced technology are being utilized in the construction of what will soon be the longest road mountain tunnel in Mindanao.
This project also promotes technological transfer between Japan and the Philippines, with provisions for technical assistance and capacity building to ensure successful implementation and sustainability.
During a site inspection on July 19, 2024, Senior Undersecretary Sadain, along with Project Director Benjamin A. Bautista of the Unified Project Management Office (UPMO) - Roads Management Cluster I (Bilateral) and Project Director Rodrigo I. Delos Reyes of the UPMO Bridges Management Cluster, observed the meticulous work on waterproofing and subsequent concrete pouring for the invert arch lining.
The waterproofing efforts, which have covered 1.130-kilometer northbound and 1.135-kilometer southbound, are crucial for preventing water ingress, preserving the tunnel’s longevity, and ensuring operational efficiency.
Meanwhile, 978 meters northbound and 967 meters southbound have already been fitted with invert arch lining concrete, which will reinforce the tunnel structure and improve its ability to withstand various loads and environmental conditions.
The entire Contract Package I-1 involves the construction of a 10.7-kilometer two (2)-lane carriageway for both northbound and southbound roads, divided by a median, from the Mintal Road Intersection at Sta. 12+800 to the Mandug Road Intersection at Sta. 23+500. The package also includes three (3) pairs of river bridges with a total length of 0.5 kilometers and two (2) underpasses.
With an overall accomplishment of 51.5%, Contract Package I-1 also covers the construction of access roads to the bridges and tunnel portals, two (2) Engineer’s offices with laboratories, and main and sub-offices at the north and south portal sides, respectively, for construction supervision and management.
The Engineer’s Offices were designed to meet the standards of a typical school building and are planned for future turnover to the Department of Education as additional learning facilities.
Under contract with the Shimizu - Ulticon - Takenaka joint venture, DPWH field supervision for Contract Package I-1 is managed by Project Manager Joselito B. Reyes, Project Engineer Juan M. Diña Jr., and Engineer Earl Nicholas F. Rada of the UPMO - Roads Management Cluster I (Bilateral).
