ACTING on the orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to accelerate infrastructure development nationwide, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has secured the release of P145.56 billion for the Central Mindanao High Standard Highway Construction Project.
This would ensure uninterrupted funding for the initiative that will cut travel time nearly in half and spark economic growth across the region, DBM said.
The move underscores the president’s push to speed up high-impact infrastructure projects that directly improve mobility, strengthen regional economies and create more opportunities for Filipinos, especially in Mindanao.
The Central Mindanao High Standard Highway will significantly enhance connectivity between Cagayan de Oro and Malaybalay, cutting travel time from 6.5 hours to just 3.5 hours. This means faster travel, lower transport costs and more efficient movement of goods — benefits that will directly impact commuters, farmers, businesses and local communities.
Beyond convenience, the project is expected to boost trade competitiveness, attract investments and stimulate growth in key sectors such as agriculture, logistics and tourism — unlocking new opportunities across Northern and Central Mindanao.
The project is proposed to be financed through loan proceeds from the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Asian Development Bank, alongside the Philippine government’s counterpart funding.
“With the President’s directive to accelerate infrastructure development, we are ensuring that the project will not be delayed due to lack of funds. With this FOA (forward obligational authority), continuous financing is guaranteed until completion — so that Filipinos, especially in Mindanao, can feel the benefits of smoother, faster and safer travel sooner,” acting Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo said in Filipino in a statement.
“This is not just about building a road — it is about connecting communities, shortening the distance between opportunities and making everyday life easier for our countrymen,” he added.
