New Bridge Project to Trigger Heavy Traffic Between Muntinlupa and San Pedro Starting Feb. 1

by Donny Rosario

PUBLIC ADVISORY

Motorists traveling between Muntinlupa City and San Pedro, Laguna should expect heavier traffic beginning February 1, 2026, as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) begins construction of the new Muntinlupa–Tunasan–San Pedro Bridge.

Local authorities issued the advisory ahead of the project’s commencement, warning that the construction period will likely bring moderate to heavy congestion in the area, particularly during peak hours. A stop-and-go traffic scheme will be implemented near the work zone to allow heavy equipment access and ensure worker safety, according to officials.

The bridge, once completed, aims to improve connectivity between Metro Manila’s southern corridor and the rapidly growing urban communities of Laguna. The route serves as a strategic passageway for commuters and private motorists, and is also used for commercial transport.

City traffic management personnel said motorists should prepare for journey delays and allow additional travel time. They also encouraged the use of alternate roads where possible to avoid bottlenecks. While rerouting plans are still being finalized, officials noted that advisories will be issued before the scheme is enforced.

Public safety remains a central concern. The construction zone will include barriers, directional signage, and visible traffic personnel. Drivers are reminded to follow temporary road markings and observe caution when navigating narrow lanes.

Infrastructure analysts note that the project forms part of ongoing efforts to reduce congestion in Metro Manila by expanding secondary access points between the National Capital Region and nearby provinces. While short-term disruption is expected, improvements such as new bridges and feeder roads are seen as key to mobility and regional economic activity.

However, residents and frequent commuters have expressed concern over the timing of the project, citing already heavy traffic volumes along the Muntinlupa–San Pedro boundary. Local businesses also anticipate adjustments, including logistical delays in deliveries and reduced customer foot traffic during peak construction periods.

The DPWH has yet to provide a full timeline for project completion but stated that work will proceed in phases to minimize the impact on daily traffic. Updates will be released as the construction progresses.

City officials from both Muntinlupa and San Pedro stressed the importance of public cooperation, noting that delays and inconvenience are unavoidable elements of major public works. They reiterated that the long-term benefits of the bridge include reduced travel time, improved road safety, and expanded economic opportunities for surrounding communities.

Despite the inconveniences, the project underscores the region’s continuing urban expansion and the broader push for infrastructure development. With residential and commercial growth accelerating in the South, transport improvements remain a priority for both local and national government agencies.

For now, motorists are advised to monitor official traffic bulletins, plan their routes ahead of time, and expect congestion in the coming months as the bridge construction begins.