MANILA, Philippines — Construction of the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge will begin before July, the Department of Public Works and Highways announced, with initial work starting on two land-based contract packages after the bidding process is finalized.

DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said the agency is completing the bidding process and expects to start construction on the first segments within the coming months.

The 32.15-kilometer bridge will span Manila Bay, connecting Bataan and Cavite provinces. Officials project the structure will reduce travel times, boost commerce and improve connectivity throughout Luzon.

The project carries a total cost of $3.91 billion, with $2.1 billion financed through an Asian Development Bank loan and the remainder funded by the Philippine government. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has also approved additional financing.

The DPWH targets completion by 2029, though some sources indicate the bridge may not be fully operational until March 2030.

The project represents one of the Philippines’ largest infrastructure investments and is expected to ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila while enhancing economic productivity in the region. The bridge will connect Barangay Alas-asin in Mariveles, Bataan to areas in Cavite province.

Construction has faced multiple delays, with initial plans calling for work to begin in early 2024 before being pushed to mid-2025.