San Miguel wins P7.78B Boracay bridge project after no competing bids

A long-awaited bridge connection to Boracay Island is moving forward after San Miguel Holdings Corp. won a P7.78-billion contract to build and operate the project under a public-private partnership.

The Department of Public Works and Highways issued a Notice of Award to San Miguel Holdings Corp., the infrastructure arm of San Miguel Corp., for the Boracay Bridge Project, the agency announced. The project covers a 2.54-kilometer bridge linking Boracay Island to mainland Panay in Aklan province.

San Miguel submitted the project as an unsolicited proposal, which underwent a “Swiss Challenge” process, a mechanism that allows other companies to submit competing bids before a final award is made. No competing proposals were received, allowing San Miguel to retain the project as the original proponent. The DPWH then approved the recommendation of its public-private partnership bids committee.

The bridge will include a 1.14-kilometer limited-access section with two lanes, according to project documents. It will also feature sidewalks, bike lanes and access roads on both ends. Transport hubs are planned to support public vehicles, cargo movement and commercial activity, with officials saying the components are designed to improve access for residents and tourists while supporting daily transport needs.

The contract covers financing, design, construction, operation and maintenance of the bridge. The partnership will run for 30 years, covering both construction and long-term management. The project is designed to provide all-weather access while helping manage congestion and environmental pressure on the island, which has faced past restrictions on tourist arrivals due to overtourism and pollution concerns.

Following the award, San Miguel must complete post-award requirements within 20 days, including forming a special purpose company and securing financial guarantees, the DPWH said. The agency will review compliance before executing the concession agreement.

No timetable for construction or target completion date has been released. San Miguel Holdings Corp. did not immediately respond to a request for comment.