Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has announced a further delay in the completion of the Pulangbato Bridge in Barangay Pulangbato, citing persistent construction challenges and difficult site conditions. This development raises concerns about water delivery to upland communities as the dry season approaches.
Project Timeline and Setbacks
The bridge project, originally slated for completion in December 2025, has encountered multiple obstacles. Heavy rains, typhoons, and the 2025 Cebu earthquake have contributed to the delays, prompting the contractor to request additional time. Mayor Archival emphasized that if the bridge is not completed within the next six months, it could severely impact water access for residents in upland areas during the summer months.
Contractor and Construction Details
The current contractor, SJ Bonifacio Builders, is expected to pour concrete for the bridge structure on Friday, March 20, 2026, although the City has yet to confirm if this schedule will proceed. The project is now valued at P27 million, up from the original P24-million contract awarded to SBD Builders Inc. in 2023. Despite a 60-day extension moving the deadline to September 30, 2024, SBD Builders completed only 36.02 percent of the project, leading to its termination due to poor performance and insufficient equipment.
Procedural Issues and Future Measures
Mayor Archival highlighted that some delays stemmed from incomplete requirements during the project's awarding stage. The contract was awarded without securing a road right-of-way, property owners' consent, and a building permit, which prevented immediate construction start. In response, the City Government is reviewing its procedures to ensure all necessary requirements are completed before awarding future projects.
Impact on Upland Communities
The mayor warned that without the bridge, sending water trucks to upland areas like Sirao, Guba, and Agsungot will be difficult, as navigating the river becomes challenging. He noted that contractors may avoid penalties for delays if they file for a suspension of work due to valid reasons, such as weather disturbances, with city engineers evaluating such requests to extend the project timeline accordingly.
Historical Context and Emergency Measures
In October 2024, Barangay Pulangbato officials declared a state of emergency due to the delays, prompting the City Council to terminate the contract with SBD Builders. Before termination, the City had released approximately P7 million as a down payment. Once completed, the Pulangbato Bridge is expected to serve as a vital link, improving access between Pulangbato and downtown Cebu City for upland villages.
Mayor Archival expressed hope that the bridge will be completed before the end of 2026, with the City Government continuing to monitor progress and coordinate with the contractor to address issues. The ongoing challenges underscore the importance of thorough planning and adherence to requirements in infrastructure projects to prevent future setbacks.
