Cotabato City — May 1, 2025 — The newly constructed bridge in Barangay Poblacion 9 was officially turned over to the City Government of Cotabato during a ceremony held on May 1, 2025. The bridge, named Poblacion 9 Peace Bridge, is expected to ease traffic flow and improve mobility for residents and local commerce.

The project, with a total cost of ₱45 million, was implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in coordination with the Cotabato City Government. Construction of the bridge took approximately one year. It measures 60 meters in length and 8 meters in width, with two vehicle lanes and a pedestrian walkway for safety.

The turnover ceremony was led by officials from DPWH-Region XII, along with Cotabato City Mayor Mohammad Ali Matabalao and barangay officials from Poblacion 9. The event was also attended by members of the city council, residents, and representatives from the private sector.

According to Mayor Matabalao, the Poblacion 9 Peace Bridge is a symbol of development and a testament to effective collaboration between the local and national governments. “This is not just a bridge that connects two sides of a river—it is also a bridge toward a more comfortable life and a more progressive Cotabato City,” the mayor said in his speech.