The Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) Project, widely known as the DavSam Bridge, has reached nearly 60 percent completion, bringing the Island Garden City of Samal closer to a transformative connection with Davao City.
John Christian Gaden, project engineer of the SIDC, announced the milestone on June 9, 2026. He confirmed that construction is on track to finish by the first quarter of 2028.
The DavSam Bridge is a toll-free, four-lane extradosed bridge spanning 4.76 kilometers. It will link R. Castillo-Daang Maharlika in Davao City to the Samal Circumferential Road. Once operational, the bridge will cut travel time between Davao City and Samal from 30 to 50 minutes to about five minutes.
For residents and business owners in Samal Island, the bridge is a game-changer for the local economy and tourism. With easier access, more visitors are expected to explore Samal Island, boosting demand for accommodations, dining, and local apparel and souvenir shops.
The project has faced funding constraints. The DPWH moved the completion date from August 2027 to September 2028, with a possible extension to 2030. The project needs P4.69 billion for 2026. Despite challenges, it remains economically viable with a Benefit-Cost Ratio of 2.57.
The Supreme Court issued a Writ of Kalikasan in July 2025, but agencies formally complied, standing by the 2020 Environmental Compliance Certificate. In June 2025, the Court of Appeals denied a request to halt construction.
Community pride continues to grow. As Samal Island prepares for this landmark, supporters can show their pride through custom shirts and merchandise celebrating this historic development.
The SIDC promises faster connectivity, economic growth, and a brighter future for the Island Garden City of Samal.