THE upcoming opening of the Panguil Bay Bridge, linking Lanao del Norte and Misamis Occidental, is anticipated to significantly enhance Northern Mindanao’s tourism economy.

Marie Ellaine Unchuan, Department of Tourism (DOT-10) director, highlighted at the Kapihan sa PIA forum on July 9 that the bridge’s completion will streamline travel between Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Zamboanga del Sur, fostering regional tourism.

“We have developed inter-tourism circuits with Zamboanga and plan to attract more tourists and tour operators to promote Northern Mindanao,” Unchuan told reporters.

NEW BRIDGE. Department of Tourism-10 Director Marie Ellaine Unchuan emphasized on Tuesday (July 9), during the Kapihan sa PIA, that the opening of Panguil Bay Bridge will boost the tourism circuit of Northern Mindanao. Photo by Sheila Mae Butlig

Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda Dimaporo announced during the Araw ng Lanao del Norte celebration that the bridge is 90% complete, with an expected inauguration in September.

She said that the provincial government funded the feasibility study, marking this project as a significant legacy.

Dimaporo detailed ongoing construction efforts, including railing installation at a pace of 200 meters daily.

TOURISM BOOST. Governor Imelda Dimaporo in the center during the 65th Araw ng Lanao del Norte emphasized the importance of the opening of Panguil Bay Bridge in boosting the tourism industry of LaNorte and the entire region of Northern Mindanao. Photo by Sheila Mae Butlig

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is focusing on railings, asphalt overlaying, and access roads to ensure timely completion.

The bridge will feature electrical lighting, co-funded by Lanao del Norte and Tangub City. Regulations on permissible vehicle types are pending ordinances from the respective local councils.

Both Unchuan and Dimaporo anticipate that the bridge will spring the economic growth in Northern Mindanao, reducing travel time between Lanao del Norte and Tangub to just five minutes and attracting investments and developments in the region.