BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – The long-awaited construction of the Panay-Guimaras-Negros (PGN) Link Bridge, a 32-kilometer infrastructure project poised to revolutionize regional connectivity, is set to commence this year, according to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.
During the Regional Development Council (RDC) meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last week, Treñas confirmed the President’s assurance that work on the project will begin within 2025.
Estimated to cost P189 billion, the PGN Link Bridge consists of two major sections.
Section A includes a 13-kilometer Panay-Guimaras segment, which includes a 4.97-kilometer sea-crossing bridge.
On the other hand, Section B involves a 19.47-kilometer Guimaras-Negros segment, featuring a 13.11-kilometer sea-crossing bridge.
The bridge will span the challenging waters separating the islands of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros, requiring advanced engineering techniques and meticulous planning to address the complexities of the marine environment and terrain.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is leading the project, with feasibility studies and detailed engineering design already underway.
Engr. Sanny Boy Oropel, DPWH Region 6 director, has revealed that the detailed engineering for Section A was targeted for completion by December 2024, earlier than the original 2025 schedule.
Senior Undersecretary Emil Kiram Sadain of DPWH earlier said that consultants with expertise in long-span bridges are assisting with the preparations.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board has approved the supplementary feasibility study report and engineering services for the project.
Construction of the Panay-Guimaras section is expected to commence first, with the bridge potentially operational by the early 2030s.
In addition to the PGN Link Bridge, Mayor Treñas also highlighted other key infrastructure projects for Iloilo and Western Visayas during the RDC meeting.
These include the Jalaur Irrigation Canal, the Panay River Basin Project, and the Iloilo Bulk Water Supply Project.
Treñas emphasized its importance for agricultural productivity and water management. President Marcos assured that the national government would allocate the remaining budget needed for its completion.
He said the Panay River Basin Project aimed at improving Iloilo City’s potable water supply, the project is planned for implementation next year following a review of its budgetary requirements.
Treñas informed the President about Iloilo City’s acceptance of an unsolicited proposal from Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC).
The proposal, however, will undergo negotiation, procedural compliance, and a Swiss challenge to ensure transparency and competitiveness.
“We are grateful for the national government’s commitment to supporting these critical infrastructure projects that will drive progress and improve the quality of life for Ilonggos,” Treñas said.
These projects are expected to transform the region, enhancing infrastructure, boosting economic growth, and improving access to essential resources./PN
