The Philippines has postponed awarding a significant infrastructure project, part of a plan to construct one of the longest marine bridges in the world, amid rising local opposition focused on national security concerns regarding a potential Chinese contractor. The project, which involves the construction of a 32-kilometer bridge across Manila Bay with an estimated cost of US$3.9 billion, has seen competitive bids, primarily from Chinese companies. However, the Philippine government is conducting a comprehensive review of these proposals, aided by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which acts as the lender and oversight body to ensure international standards are met.
Initially, the Public Works Ministry planned to announce the winning bidder by November 29, but this has been delayed as the agency ensures that all bids comply with technical and financial requirements, as well as obtaining a “no-objection letter” from the ADB. The ministry indicated that a new timeline for announcements will be issued in the coming weeks.
The opposition stems particularly from local maritime stakeholders, who urged the government to reject bids from China Harbour Engineering Company, which offered the lowest bid at 4.87 billion pesos. The Philippine Interisland Shipping Association and other groups raised substantial concerns, asserting that awarding the contract to a Chinese state-owned company could pose significant risks, including potential sabotage and espionage threats to national infrastructure.
These groups have pointed to serious doubts about the integrity of the Chinese firm, which is a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company. The U.S. State Department previously sanctioned units of this company for engaging in various controversial activities, including environmental degradation and corruption. The ongoing geopolitical tensions between the Philippines and China, particularly following incidents in the South China Sea, further amplify these concerns.
While the Philippine government, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has enhanced maritime patrols and challenged China’s claims in the South China Sea, it seeks to balance these security issues with the need to maintain vital trade relations with China, its top trading partner.
Moreover, General Andres Centino, an advisor on South China Sea matters, hinted at ongoing reviews by security agencies regarding the project’s feasibility in light of the concerns about the Chinese contractor’s background. The outcome of this project is critical not only for the region’s infrastructure but also speaks to broader national security dynamics as the Philippines navigates complex relationships with its neighboring superpower and seeks to bolster its economic development through improved transportation and logistics networks.
