On 28 April 2025, Ambassador ENDO Kazuya and Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) NAKANO Hiromasa joined Secretary of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Manuel Bonoan in Davao City to celebrate the successful connection of the north and south portals of one of the twin tunnels of the Davao City Bypass Construction Project. Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Chairperson Leo Tereso Magno also attended the momentous occasion.
The 2.3-kilometer tunnel now stands as the longest mountain tunnel in the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in the country’s road infrastructure. The tunnel connection marks a pivotal point in the construction phase. Once completed, the Davao City Bypass will significantly reduce travel time, boost economic activity, and improve overall connectivity in Mindanao.
Starting with the construction of the Philippine-Japan Friendship Highway, the Japanese government has played a key role in supporting high-impact infrastructure projects throughout the country for more than a half century. The Davao City Bypass is a prime example of the two nations’ shared commitment to building infrastructure that meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability.
Japan continues to be the Philippines’ top Official Development Assistance (ODA) donor, providing assistance across multiple sectors, including roads, railways, disaster risk reduction and environment, as well as support for the peace process in Mindanao.
