Residents of Kabacan and Carmen in North Cotabato have every reason to celebrate, as two parallel bridges, crucial for land transportation connectivity, were opened on Monday, May 4, 2026. The Carmen Parallel Bridge in Carmen and the Lumayong Parallel Bridge in Kabacan are now open to the public, enhancing connectivity among Regions 10, 11, and 12, and boosting economic activity across these areas.
Project Construction Details
During her speech, Regional Director Cayamombao D. Dia of the Department of Public Works and Highways-Soccsksargen reported that the construction of the parallel bridges was carried out in two phases. Phase 1 focused on the foundation and substructure components of both bridges, which commenced simultaneously. The Lumayong Parallel Bridge in Kabacan has a length of 180 linear meters and a Phase 1 contract cost of PHP 96.5 million. The Carmen Parallel Bridge has a length of 240 linear meters and a Phase 1 contract cost of PHP 143.6 million. Dia emphasized that Phase 1 involved structural foundations and the installation of substructure components to support superstructure loads, which include forces from flooring, beams, vehicles, wind, and seismic activity.
Phase 2 covered the superstructures, road surface, and ancillary works. For the Carmen Bridge, Phase 2 had a contract amount of PHP 122.721 million, while the Lumayong Bridge had a Phase 2 contract cost of PHP 100.98 million. The total cost for both phases of the two parallel bridges reaches nearly PHP 500 million, reflecting the government's substantial commitment to improving interregional infrastructure in Mindanao.
Linking Mindanao Regions
North Cotabato Governor Emmylou "Lala" Taliño-Mendoza emphasized that although the projects were long overdue, she is grateful for this major milestone. The bridges link the municipalities of Carmen and Kabacan and the rest of Region 12, strengthening interprovincial connectivity between Bukidnon and Cotabato and enhancing interregional access across Mindanao. She noted that the projects will expand regional access, making transportation more efficient and convenient, and support stronger and more inclusive economic growth. The governor also expressed hope that the road section will eventually be elevated from a secondary national highway to a primary one due to its importance as a road network connecting Region 12, Northern Mindanao, and Region 10, including the special geographic areas of the Bangsamoro.
Bridge to Peace Through Inclusivity
Mindanao Development Authority Director Ollie Dagala, representing Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno, highlighted the bridges' significance in easing heavy traffic and reducing safety risks, especially for trucks carrying agricultural goods. He stated that traffic flow will become smoother and safer, and transport of products will become faster. For the municipalities of Carmen and Kabacan, both major agricultural hubs, these bridges ensure faster transport of goods, reduce harvest losses, and strengthen market access, directly translating to better income for farmers and improved food security. Dagala also stressed that the parallel bridges would greatly help during unforeseen events, preventing the isolation of communities and ensuring the constant flow of goods and services. He added that infrastructure is a bridge to peace in Mindanao, connecting communities and opening access to economic opportunities, thus laying the foundation for stability, peace, inclusion, and long-term development.
Direct beneficiaries expressed their excitement and gratitude. Wahad Kadalim, a tricycle driver for over a decade, noted that traffic used to be terrible but has now improved significantly, making travel much smoother. Mirriam Mamatu, a senior citizen residing in the area, expressed deep gratitude, stating that before the bridges were completed, traffic was extremely heavy and difficult.
