The government faces a delay in the Iloilo-Guimaras Bridge construction due to deeper excavation requirements, but officials remain confident about keeping the Guimaras-Negros segment on schedule.
National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan confirmed the timeline adjustment during his visit to Bacolod City on Monday, March 11.
He attended the inauguration of the NEDA Negros Island Region office and inspected key infrastructure projects, including the Bacolod-Negros Occidental Economic Highway and the Pulupandan site for the Guimaras-Negros Bridge.
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said engineers now plan to dig up to 150 meters for the Iloilo-Guimaras Bridge’s foundation, doubling the original estimate of 75 meters.
This requirement forces them to review the detailed engineering study before proceeding.
Despite this challenge, Lacson assured that the Guimaras-Negros segment remains on track. He expects engineers to start its detailed engineering study six months after they complete the Iloilo-Guimaras study.
He believes the construction on the Guimaras-Negros Bridge could begin by late 2026 or early 2027.
Balisacan reaffirmed the national government’s commitment to completing the inter-island bridges, emphasizing their role in boosting economic opportunities and regional connectivity.
The national government continues to push for better transportation networks in Western Visayas and nearby regions.
Officials believe these projects will not only improve mobility but also drive economic growth for local communities.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.