CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — The Regional Development Council (RDC)-10 showcased noteworthy accomplishments and forthcoming projects poised to revolutionize the region’s infrastructure landscape.

Among these developments is the nearing completion of the Panguil Bay Bridge, linking the Municipality of Tubod in Lanao del Norte and the City of Tangub in Misamis Occidental.

In her State of the Region Address, RDC-10 Chairperson and Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo said that this landmark project, scheduled for formal opening in August, stands as a testament to the dedication of past local leaders and the commitment of current workers and public servants.

Dimaporo also mentioned that northern Mindanao hosts 15 out of the government’s 185 infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs), underscoring the region’s vital role in national development, facilitated by its strategic position with direct access to five other regions in Mindanao.

The RDC-10 chair further emphasized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent endorsement of three priority projects for Northern Mindanao in 2025. These include the construction of the 12-floor Trauma and Multi-Specialty Centers Building Phase II at the Northern Mindanao Medical Center in Cagayan de Oro City, the Sultan Naga Dimaporo International Port, and the Maridagao (Kadingilan) Irrigation Project.

Dimaporo reported that the pre-implementation of Phase 3 of the Mindanao Railway Project and the approval for the upgrading, expansion, operation, and maintenance of the Laguindingan Airport have made significant progress in the transportation infrastructure.

“We are elated that the upgrading, expansion, and operation and maintenance of the Laguindingan Airport have been approved for implementation by the NEDA Board only this semester. The project is undergoing the Swiss Challenge, with two interested challengers. We have high hopes that the competitive bidder will be awarded by yearend based on the target timeline,” she further said.

Efforts are also underway to develop the Bukidnon airport in Don Carlos municipality, as well as a proposal to study a Balo-i General Aviation Airport.

The region is also advancing key infrastructure projects such as the Cagayan de Oro Coastal Road, Misamis Oriental West Diversion Road, Urban Drainage Project for Cagayan de Oro, and the completion of the Flood Risk Management Project for Cagayan de Oro River.

Moreover, the establishment of the Northern Mindanao Regional Government Center near Laguindingan Airport and the formulation of the Lanao del Norte Industrial Locator Map signify the region’s commitment to promoting good governance, bureaucratic efficiency, and industrial development.

In line with efforts to improve health services, initiatives are in motion to establish additional regional specialty hospitals and a regional psychiatric facility in the municipality of Initao.

Dimaporo concluded by reaffirming Northern Mindanao’s dedication to sustainable growth and development, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of local government units, national government agencies, and private sector partners in realizing these projects. (APB/PIA-10)