The Marigondon Flyover Project in Lapu-Lapu City remains stalled as authorities grapple with right-of-way (ROW) acquisition involving 112 properties that must undergo expropriation. Officials from the Lapu-Lapu City Government, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 7, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7 convened on July 1, 2026, to address the technical and legal hurdles delaying this and other major infrastructure projects along the city’s circumferential roads.
Expropriation Process and Tax Declaration Assistance
At the heart of the delay is the legal process of expropriation, where the government acquires private land for public use with compensation. For the Marigondon Flyover, this involves 112 distinct properties. To expedite the process, DPWH 7 requested the Lapu-Lapu City Government's help in securing tax declarations for all affected properties. Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” Chan confirmed that the local government will assist landowners in obtaining updated tax declarations under their names, ensuring compliance with Republic Act 12289, or the Right-of-Way Law.
Balancing Urban Growth and Property Negotiations
Lapu-Lapu City faces rapid urbanization and worsening traffic congestion. The Marigondon Flyover is a priority traffic solution designed to ease bottlenecks, complementing the planned widening of the Subabasbas-Marigondon Road corridor. However, construction cannot proceed until property negotiations are finalized. City leaders are streamlining the transition for landowners, with Lapu-Lapu City Lone Rep. Junard “Ahong” Chan calling on barangay officials to facilitate local negotiations and organizing a comprehensive forum to address stakeholder concerns.
Mayor Chan emphasized the urgency of resolving land issues quickly, especially with the onset of the rainy season potentially complicating construction. “These projects form part of the City’s continuing efforts to improve transport efficiency, expand public infrastructure, and address the demands of sustained urban growth,” she said.
Broader Infrastructure Adjustments
Beyond the flyover, the city is managing other infrastructure projects requiring ROW resolution, such as the proposed athletic oval and grandstand at Looc National High School. Other developments—including the Ibo Coastal Road, drainage works in Barangay Buaya, a new station limit in Barangay Subabasbas, and widening of Punta Engaño and Mactan Aviation roads—require coordination to relocate public utilities affected by national projects.
“Through close coordination with our national government partners, we continue to pursue an integrated approach to infrastructure development, allowing critical projects to advance efficiently,” Mayor Chan said. Next steps involve aligning environmental compliance plans, securing permits, and finalizing site clearances to prevent further delays.
