President Ferdinand Marcos led the inauguration of Panguil Bay Bridge, which connects Misamis Occidental and Lanao del Norte.
The inauguration of the 3.2-kilometer bridge, the longest of its kind in Mindanao, was held Friday, with key government officials and representatives from South Korea in attendance.
The project, which costs over P8 billion, reduces a commute that once took more than two hours to just seven minutes, benefiting over 10,000 travelers daily.
“We waited for this for such a long time,” President Marcos said.
“If I had a peso for every time someone asked me, ‘When will we finish the Panguil Bay Bridge?’ I would already be able to fund a second bridge by now. But today, the waiting is over,” he added.
The President highlighted the economic impact of the bridge, stressing its role in accelerating growth and connecting the dreams of people in both provinces.
He also acknowledged the critical role of the Republic of Korea and the Korea Eximbank in funding the project, calling their support instrumental.
According to the president, 21 ongoing projects and two upcoming ventures under the Economic Development Cooperation Fund of Korea are underway.
The President also praised the Department of Public Works and Highways for its perseverance, especially during setbacks such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused delays.
Misamis Occidentla Governor Henry Oaminal echoed the President’s sentiments during his welcome address, reflecting on the province’s transformation from a conflict zone into a hub for peace and development.
Oaminal recalled the violence that plagued the province in past decades, citing personal experiences with insurgency-related tragedies during his tenure as Kabataang Barangay president in the 1970s.
Oaminal described the declaration of the province as insurgency-free as a moment of triumph and transformation, saying it symbolizes hope, unity, and progress.
“To my fellow Misamisnons, this celebration is not just a testament to the victory over insurgency but a restoration of our province and a symbol of hope, unity, and the bright future that now lies ahead for our province,” the governor said.
Oaminal highlighted his administration’s focus on building infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, to improve access to essential services and boost economic activities in conflict-affected areas.
He noted that 95 percent of roads connecting to the hinterland barangays have been concretized, helping to end insurgency by fostering socioeconomic development.
“Our vision for Misamis Occidental has always been centered on peace, progress, and happiness,” Oaminal said.
