4th bridge moving forward with coastal road alignment

CEBU, Philippines —The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-7 has adopted the proposed alignment for the Lapu-Lapu Coastal Road, a key component of the 4th Cebu-Mactan Bridge Project, paving the way for the city’s long-pushed proposal to move forward.

DPWH-7 Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Engr. Simon N. Arias presented the latest project updates during a meeting with Lapu-Lapu City officials yesterday, July 31, and confirmed that the agency had adopted the coastal road alignment earlier proposed by Lapu-Lapu Lone District Representative Junard “Ahong” Chan.

During the meeting, officials also agreed on the simultaneous construction of the Lapu-Lapu Coastal Road and the 4th Cebu-Mactan Bridge.

Chan stressed, however, that funding remains a major challenge, noting that the proposed Lapu-Lapu Coastal Road is not yet included in the bridge project’s funding package.

Unlike the Mandaue Coastal Road, which is covered under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-funded 4th Cebu-Mactan Bridge Project, the Lapu-Lapu component has yet to secure financing.

He said previous discussions with the DPWH had already recognized the importance of the coastal road in supporting the bridge project, adding that efforts are ongoing to obtain funding for the Lapu-Lapu segment similar to that of Mandaue.

The 4th Cebu-Mactan Bridge Project, including the Mandaue Coastal Road, has an estimated cost of P76.412 billion.

Chan also raised concerns over the bridge’s connection to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, particularly the planned off-ramp in Barangay Pusok, saying it could affect Pusok Elementary School and nearby residential communities.

He also emphasized the need to address the potential traffic impact in Barangay Ibo by providing an alternative road that would connect to the proposed coastal road and the new bridge.

Engr. Arias assured local officials that the issues raised, particularly those involving funding and implementation, would be included in the agenda for the consultation between the DPWH and members of the House of Representatives from the Visayas on August 5, where priority infrastructure projects will be discussed.

For her part, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan welcomed the adoption of the alignment and said the city government would continue coordinating with the DPWH and other stakeholders to help fast-track the project's implementation.

Once completed, the Lapu-Lapu Coastal Road and the 4th Cebu-Mactan Bridge are expected to improve connectivity among Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu, ease traffic congestion, and strengthen the region’s transportation network for residents and visitors alike. (CEBU NEWS)