15/12/2025
STATEMENT
On the premature opening of the Coastal Road Segment B
December 15, 2025
DPWH will open only two of the four lanes of the Coastal Road–Roxas exit today, in compliance with the careless pronouncement of the President regarding its opening.
The Segment B of the coastal road remains under the jurisdiction of DPWH, as it has not yet been officially turned over to the LGU, primarily because the project is still unfinished. According to DPWH, all four lanes are scheduled for completion by March 2026.
During an inspection conducted by the Davao City Road Project Advisory and Monitoring Board (DCRPAMB) on December 14, it was observed that only two lanes were nearing completion. In addition, there are no streetlights or safety and traffic signages installed at the Roxas exit. Members of the DCRPAMB also asked DPWH why Segment B would be opened despite being unfinished; no proper answer was given.
The integrity and safety of public roads must not be compromised simply because a deadline has been carelessly set.
Given this premature opening, we remind the public to anticipate possible traffic congestion in the area.
To DPWH: should anything happen to Dabawenyos in that area because of inadequate streetlights and safety measures, that is on you and your stupidity.
I ask DPWH: do you still know how to do your job? Under whose authority was the decision made to open this unfinished coastal segment?
Remember the faces of the people who were present and announced this premature opening: President Bongbong Marcos, Anton Lagdameo, Leo Magno, and Vince Dizon. These are individuals who appear more concerned with making themselves look good than with ensuring the safety of Dabawenyos.
If they insist on opening it today, let them be because the President behaves like a child.
SEBASTIAN Z. DUTERTE
Acting City Mayor
