Mindanao road upgrade to cut travel time, connect rural economies—DPWH

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is close to completing the 33.05-kilometer Curuan–Sibuco Road in Mindanao, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic development in Zamboanga Peninsula.

According to Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain, who supervises DPWH’s flagship infrastructure projects, the road is now over 96 percent complete and is on track to be fully operational by September 2025. The project is part of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-assisted Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project.

DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan led an on-site inspection of the road works on July 4, 2025, accompanied by Senior Undersecretary Sadain and officials from the DPWH Unified Project Management Office - Roads Management Cluster II. The inspection also included representatives from the construction firm M. Abubakar Construction and Engineering Inc. and consulting firm Renardet S.A.

“This %u20B12.088-billion project is transformative. It improves the movement of people and goods and contributes to peace-building in historically isolated communities,” Sadain said during the site visit.

Once completed, the road will significantly reduce travel time between Zamboanga City and Zamboanga del Norte—from up to five hours to just around two hours. The road is also expected to lower transport costs and facilitate the flow of local agricultural products such as coconut, rubber, corn, and seafood, improving market access and income for farmers.

Beyond economic impact, the project is seen as a key enabler of peace and stability in the region. DPWH said greater access to previously remote areas will improve public service delivery, emergency response, and law enforcement capabilities.

The construction phase has already generated local employment, and the completed road is anticipated to attract investments in agri-trade, logistics, and tourism. Officials said the project aligns with the national government's “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda for equitable growth and resilient infrastructure.

In the same inspection, Sadain and his team also reviewed progress on the %u20B11.33-billion PR-13, Siay–Gapol Road Project in Zamboanga Sibugay. This 18.64-kilometer road includes two bridges and is now over 80 percent complete, with full completion targeted for 2026.