The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have successfully completed a key milestone for the Second San Juanico Bridge (SSJB) Construction Project. A wrap-up meeting held on July 25, 2025, finalized the project’s fact-finding phase and set the stage for the submission of the final feasibility study.
The meeting, led by DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain and JICA officials from both headquarters and the Philippines office, confirmed that the Final Report for the project is expected to be submitted in September 2025. This report is a crucial step for the high-priority infrastructure project under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The new bridge is essential for the full rehabilitation of the existing San Juanico Bridge, which is currently undergoing emergency repairs due to its deteriorating condition. The SSJB Project will include the construction of a new bridge, its approach roads, and new operation and maintenance facilities. It will also feature advanced Japanese technologies, such as paint life extension steel, composite slab technology, and seismic isolation bearings, to ensure long-term durability and earthquake resilience.
Following the submission of the final report, the project will move forward with several key steps:
- Terms of Reference (TOR): A draft TOR is expected from JICA by August 2025 to allow for internal review ahead of the JICA Pre-Appraisal Mission in September.
- Environmental Compliance: The project is anticipated to secure an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) by September 2025.
- Project Approval: The Economic Development Council (EDC) is targeted to approve the project by November 2025, with the loan signing scheduled for January 2026.
- Timeline: The Detailed Engineering Design phase will span 15 months, with civil works projected to begin in 2028 and last for approximately 32 months.
The meeting also included updates on other JICA-assisted projects, including the Central Mindanao High Standard Highway, the Parañaque Spillway, and the Davao City Flood Control Project.