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Proposed Boracay bridge- progress or a threat to livelihoods? | Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho

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News and Commentary

Overview

The proposed construction of a Boracay bridge—approved for a direct connection from Katiklan to Boracay island—has sparked strong opposition from ferry boat operators and local residents. Critics warn of significant economic displacement and potential environmental harm.

San Miguel Holdings Corporation (SMHC) is set to build the bridge under a public-private partnership, with the project estimated to cost over ₱7 billion. The bridge is planned to be approximately 2.54 km long, including:

  • road lanes
  • pedestrian and bicycle walkways
  • utility/cargo/waste systems

Once required steps (such as right-of-way and finalized designs) are completed, the project is expected to take around three years.

Main arguments and concerns from opponents

  • Livelihood loss for ferry bankers/boat handlers and transport workers Many ferry workers who rely on short ferry trips (10–15 minutes, about ₱60 fare) say the bridge will effectively “number” ferry operations, cutting off income for related groups such as bankers, boat crews, and cooperative members.

  • Debt and financial instability The CBTMPC cooperative (composed of bankers and ferry operators) has reportedly been pressured by Marina orders requiring boat modernization. Members describe severe financial strain and long-term loan burdens. If the ferry business is eliminated, opponents fear deeper debt and suggest they may pursue legal action (including potential court or Supreme Court remedies) to stop or delay the project.

  • Fear of added costs from tolls Opponents claim toll fees, once implemented, may make access too expensive. Some operators argue toll burdens could require daily revenue targets that tourism volumes may not realistically support, risking further financial loss.

  • Threats to homes and possible evictions in affected sitios Residents in areas reported to be connected to the bridge’s base—especially Sitio Tabon Baybay—fear demolition and removal, particularly because they may not have land titles. The report cites Aklan provincial resolutions that express strong opposition and call for transparency regarding how the project was awarded.

Arguments supporting the bridge

  • Economic and tourism boost Supporters argue the bridge would attract more tourists and better compensate for jobs affected by reduced ferry reliance. They also claim goods prices rise because sea transport costs are high.

  • Practical benefits during bad weather and emergencies A bridge is presented as an improvement to connectivity when ferries cannot operate due to weather, and as a way to speed emergency transfers to hospitals.

Environmental and process disputes

  • Environmental risk and long-term impact Concerns include potential damage to marine biodiversity/coral reefs and the difficulty and cost of rehabilitation afterward.

  • Unresolved or disputed compliance steps The report states an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) was issued in 2019 but has lapsed (with ECC validity described as five years). Opponents argue that there is no currently approved ECC reflected in the account and insist SMHC must provide clear mitigation plans.

  • Consultation and authority issues Questions are raised about whether meaningful public consultations occurred and whether LGU endorsements were valid. A message reportedly claimed Malay local authorities approved an earlier bridge plan; however, the report says the mayor allegedly lacked authority to bind the LGU without proper legislative approval and that there was no official endorsement from the sanggunian bayan. DPW and SMHC representatives defend the project as critical infrastructure and state that grievances will be addressed through consultation/engagement.

Timeline and status

  • No fixed construction start date yet Construction will begin only after completion of right-of-way and the finalization of designs.

  • Estimated duration Approximately three years.

  • Active local government opposition The report cites Aklan provincial resolutions dated Oct. 8, 2025, March 12, 2026, and additional Wednesday resolutions. These object to the project, criticize the awarding process to SMHC, and request project documents from relevant agencies.

Presenters / contributors

  • Jessica Soho (program/segment title indicates “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho”)
  • Unspecified on-camera individuals (e.g., Leo, Godofredo, Arley/“Harley,” Mary Jane, and other residents/transport cooperative members)
  • Vince Dizon (DPW Secretary; interviewed/quoted in a press conference)
  • Ramon Ang (SMC; referenced regarding assurances to address concerns)
  • Mark Villar (referenced in a letter about a 2018 local action)
  • Abraham Swalog (referenced; a former acting mayor is mentioned in the context of a claimed endorsement)
  • GMA Public Affairs (YouTube channel credited at the end)

Original video