A new PHP4.5bn ($86.2m) 66km bypass road project to connect Davao and Bukidnon in the Philippines is under consideration.

The Davao regional office of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is seeking approval of the City Council for the construction of the 66km alternate road, Mindanao Times reported.

The project will traverse through the junction of Davao City Diversion Road-Catalunan Grande-Talandang-Sumimao-Pañalum-Tapak-Cabanglasan-Aglayan in Malaybalay, Bukidnon, Philippines.

The project is expected to be divided into a five-year scheme.

If approved, it will include gravelling, structures and road improvements.

The contractor will also widen the road from sub-standard to standard, which will provide a drainage structure and bridges, the report added.

DPWH XI regional director Allan Borromeo was quoted by MindanaoTimes.com as saying: “This road will serve as an alternate Davao-Bukidnon route traversing in a portion of Davao del Norte.

“It may be observed that the existing Davao-Bukidnon Road has several sections prone to road slips and landslides, which serves the road impassable at times and may even pose danger in case of sudden or unexpected slips or landslides.”

The project will bring opportunities in terms of goods exchange and improve the services between Davao City and Davao del Norte. The service will be extended until Bukidnon in the Northern Mindanao.

Borromeo was further quoted by the publication as saying: “This road will thereby provide continuous access towards Region X, at the same time, providing a road that would pass through communities and insurgency areas in Davao del Norte in order to address the peace and order condition in the province.”

The proposal was first passed by the councillors on its first reading.