The design for the long-awaited fourth bridge connecting Mactan Island and mainland Cebu has been unveiled. The 3.3-kilometer, four-lane structure will start in Barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City, and include a coastal road component. The project is estimated to cost P76.412 billion.
Relocation Challenges
Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano admitted that one of the main challenges is the relocation of over 200 families affected by the construction of the fourth bridge, which could impact the project timeline. According to Ouano, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 7 formally requested Mandaue to clear portions of the coastal area in Barangay Paknaan for bridge piers and other access components.
The project affects nearly 200 families, mostly informal settlers and fire victims who have long lived and worked in the area. Ouano said that although the government offers relocation options, many affected families oppose and refuse to move outside Mandaue due to livelihood concerns.
Residents' Concerns
“They don’t want to move far because they have lived there for many years,” Ouano said. Some residents have also rejected financial assistance, insisting on decent and permanent relocation within the city. The mayor acknowledged that Mandaue faces a shortage of suitable relocation sites. Existing relocation sites like Bayanihan Village are already full, while socialized housing projects are still under construction.
Ouano clarified that some buildings currently being built are designed for only 100 to 150 families each, far from the actual number needed.
Project Details and Funding
The proposed fourth bridge is expected to be a major link between Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu City, aiming to ease traffic congestion on existing bridges and improve access to northern Cebu, including Consolacion and neighboring towns. The new 3.3-kilometer, four-lane bridge will start in Barangay Paknaan, Mandaue City, and include a coastal road component to speed up traffic flow across the metro.
The project, estimated at P76.412 billion, will be funded through a 120-billion-yen loan under Japan's official development assistance program via the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The DPWH targets to start construction within this year.
