DAVAO CITY — Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan Dizon personally inspected the temporary detour road along the landslide-damaged Bukidnon-Davao (BuDa) Highway in Sitio Kipolot, Barangay Palacapao, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, on January 13, 2026, to assess progress and readiness ahead of the permanent bypass opening.
The visit came as the temporary gravel detour — which was closed on January 4 to allow final grading and paving — is now being prepared for full reopening. Dizon confirmed that the permanent four-lane bypass is on track to open in the first or second week of January 2026 (likely mid-January), restoring direct connectivity between Northern Mindanao and Davao Region after months of disruption since the major landslide on October 18, 2025.
Key highlights from Dizon’s inspection:
- Final asphalt paving and road surface correction are nearly complete.
- Drainage improvements and shoulder stabilization are underway.
- Traffic management plan is in place for smooth transition when the detour reopens and the permanent bypass becomes operational.
- Daily economic losses from the closure (~P187 million) will be significantly reduced once the road reopens.
Dizon stated:
“We are committed to delivering this bypass as quickly and safely as possible. The detour served us well during the holidays, but the permanent solution will bring back normalcy and efficiency for thousands of travelers and cargo haulers every day.”
The permanent bypass project is budgeted at P46.6 million and includes reinforced structures to prevent future landslides in the area.
Motorists are reminded that the main highway remains impassable until full rehabilitation is complete (target mid-2026). Alternate routes via Valencia-Kapalong-Tagum or Maramag-Kabacan-Digos remain in effect.
Here are photos from Secretary Dizon’s inspection — site progress, detour road conditions, and discussions with engineers and local officials.
The long-awaited fix is finally nearing completion — safer and faster travel ahead for Mindanao!