A new overpass located along the Kidapawan–Allah Junction Road (K1677+625) in front of the Sultan Kudarat State University ACCESS Campus was formally inaugurated and turned over on May 16, 2026, marking a significant step toward improving pedestrian safety and infrastructure development in the province.
The inauguration and turn-over ceremony gathered local government officials, university administrators, representatives from national agencies, and members of the community in celebration of the completion of the project, which is expected to provide a safer and more secure crossing for students, faculty, and residents traversing the busy national highway.
Delivering the welcome remarks on behalf of University President Dr. Samson L. Molao was the University Vice President for Finance and Resource Generation, Reynaldo H. Dalayap Jr., who emphasized the importance of the project in ensuring the welfare and protection of the academic community. The university administration also expressed gratitude to the agencies and officials who supported the realization of the overpass project, highlighting its long-term benefits for both the university and the public.
Messages from local chief executives were also delivered during the program. Representing Isulan Mayor Hon. Bai Rihan M. Sakaluran was Vice Mayor Atty. Arnold H. Armada, while Tacurong City Mayor Hon. Lina O. Montilla personally conveyed her message of support and appreciation for the infrastructure development.
Mayor Montilla described the overpass as a “life-saving project,” stressing its vital role in preventing accidents and promoting pedestrian safety in the area. She also urged the public to help protect the facility from vandalism and encouraged proper discipline in its use. In addition, she emphasized prioritizing vulnerable sectors, including senior citizens and persons with disabilities, in the use of the elevator installed within the overpass facility. She likewise called on traffic enforcers to maintain visibility in the area to further ensure the safety of commuters and pedestrians.
Meanwhile, Governor Hon. Datu Pax S. Mangudadatu emphasized the Provincial Government’s continued commitment to projects centered on public safety and accessibility. He acknowledged the long-standing concerns of parents, students, and residents regarding the risks posed by heavy traffic along the national highway in front of the university.
The governor noted that the overpass project was pursued to help prevent accidents and provide a safer and more convenient passage for pedestrians, especially students who regularly cross the road to attend classes. He further underscored the importance of collaborative infrastructure initiatives that directly address the needs of the community.
The overpass project was implemented through the collaboration of the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Provincial Government of Sultan Kudarat under the leadership of Governor Datu Pax Ali S. Mangudadatu, Vice Governor Prince Raden M. Sakaluran, First District Congresswoman Bai Ruth M. Sakaluran and Former Congresswoman Bai Rihan Mangudadatu Sakaluran.
University President Dr. Samson L. Molao also expressed his appreciation for the project, recognizing it as a valuable contribution to the university community. He underscored that the overpass reflects a shared commitment among government agencies and stakeholders to prioritize student safety and improve public infrastructure surrounding the university. He further noted that the development aligns with the university’s vision of fostering a safer and more accessible learning environment for all.
The inauguration of the overpass stands as another milestone in the continuing infrastructure and development initiatives benefiting the people of Tacurong City and the Province of Sultan Kudarat. The project also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which promotes safe, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable public spaces and infrastructure for all, particularly in ensuring safer mobility and accessibility for students, commuters, and residents.