DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 10 December) — Days after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. inspected the ₱3.1-billion Bucana Bridge project, allies of former President Rodrigo R. Duterte in the City Council honored the detained Philippine leader and the Chinese government for the construction of the Bucana Bridge project.
During its regular session on Tuesday, the local legislative body passed two resolutions, one commending the Duterte administration for establishing the bridge as a “symbol of friendship and strong diplomatic cooperation” between the Philippines and China, and another recognizing the People’s Republic of China and Chinese President Xi Jinping for their “significant contribution and friendship” in realizing the project.
In his privilege speech, 2nd District Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang, author of the resolutions, said the bridge project, funded through a Chinese government grant, is one of the major flagship infrastructure projects under Duterte’s “Build, Build, Build” program.
“The construction and funding support for the Bucana Bridge form part of the Philippine-China cooperation under the Duterte administration, representing enhanced bilateral relations, economic coordination, and infrastructure collaboration between the two nations,” he said.
President Marcos Jr.’s December 4 inspection of the Bucana Bridge drew backlash from Duterte’s supporters, accusing the incumbent of “credit-grabbing.” However, Mindanao Development Authority chairperson Leo Magno stated during a December 5 business forum that there was “nothing political” about Marcos’ visit.
Dayanghirang noted that the Philippines and China share centuries of cultural and trade exchanges, dating back to the pre-colonial period, with formal diplomatic ties established on June 9, 1975. He added that relations further strengthened during Duterte’s presidency.
“The assistance of China in developing key infrastructure in Mindanao, particularly in Davao City, reflects a deepened bilateral cooperation and a commitment to shared progress, development, and mutual respect,” he said.
According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the 1.34-kilometer, four-lane bridge is part of the 17.8-kilometer Davao City Coastal Bypass Road, connecting Agdao to Bago Aplaya. Dayanghirang emphasized that the project aims to ease traffic congestion, improve mobility between coastal and business districts, and provide safer public access. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)
