The Chinese government has always been a "dependable partner" of the Philippines, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed Thursday during the groundbreaking for the P23-billion Samal Island-Davao City Connector Bridge Project.

A loan agreement with China will cover 90 percent of the project cost amounting to $350 million or P18.67 billion of the P23-billion total cost.

"It is for us to express our gratitude to the government of the People's Republic of China as they were an active member and have always been a dependable partner in this infrastructure development program," Marcos said in his speech.

"This is a testament to the strong and ever-growing foundation of the bilateral relations and cooperation between our two countries," he added. Marcos pointed out that the infrastructure project was developed during the term of his predecessor, former President Rodrigo Duterte.

"At this juncture, I would also like to explain that I am only fortunate to have been sitting as President when we broke ground for this very important project. This project actually was formally begun by then Secretary Mark Villar under the Duterte administration," he said.

"The previous administration had already been working on this project for four years before we arrived this day," the President pointed out.

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, and other government officials attended the ceremony. Marcos said he is looking forward to being the "lucky one" to open the bridge upon its completion in 2027.

The bridge is expected to shorten travel time from Davao City to Samal from around 30 minutes via ferry to just five minutes.

Economic potential

The President expressed optimism that the construction of the bridge will help develop the region's economic potential and bolster access of Davaoeños to social services.

The bridge would be able to accommodate 25,000 vehicles daily over 3.98 kilometers, with ramps in Davao City and a 24-meter wide grade road and roundabout in the Samal Circumferential Road.

"In 2027, this bridge will surely ease the convenience of travel and transport, bringing forth gainful opportunities for many of our people by providing a link between far-flung areas and economic centers, thereby ensuring smoother mobility of people and goods," he said.

After the groundbreaking activity, the President led the distribution of government aid at the DPWH regional office in Panacan, Davao City.

Mr. Marcos Jr. also congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping on his reappointment as the general secretary of the Communist Party of China. He lauded Xi through Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian.

"We must extend our congratulations for the successful conduct of the Communist Party Conference just concluded," Marcos told Huang.

"We look forward to building upon the directions that President Xi Jinping has given to the People's Republic of China in partnership with the Philippines. We look forward to continuing, to strengthen, and to bring closer our two countries," he said.

Huang reiterated China's ties with the Philippines as close neighbors and partners.

"In China's journey towards modernization, we are willing to work hand in hand with the Philippines for mutual benefit and common development," he said.

The Chinese envoy expressed confidence that the infrastructure project would provide livelihood to locals, serve as a landmark to the region of Davao, and signify a new milestone in the China-Philippine friendship.

On 23 October, the CPC Central Committee elected Xi as its general secretary for another five-year term.

Xi is set to have his third term, making him the country's most powerful ruler since founding leader Mao Zedong.