Liloan bridge rehab may finish ahead of target

CEBU, Philippines – The repair of Suba Bridge in Liloan town, which is an alternate access to and from northern Cebu, is now 60 percent complete and is even projected to get ahead of its target date.

The project has been going on for about six months already since it started on February 26, 2017.

Mayor Christina Garcia Frasco has been following up every month on the progress of the construction work, which is being implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways.

“I will be personally inspecting the project every month until it finishes, to emphasize its urgency and to complement our efforts to address traffic congestion,” Frasco said.

She reiterated the need to finish the bridge at the soonest possible time in order to alleviate traffic condition in the northern corridor.

The DPWH and the contractor, Duros, reaffirmed their commitment to finish the bridge by the third week of October 2017.

Under the contract, the target date of completion is in December yet.

“Its completion will once again allow faster direct access from the National Highway in Tayud and Catarman into Poblacion,” Frasco said.

The bridge was closed since November 17, 2016 to allow the DPWH to build a modular or temporary bridge while it repairs the Suba steel bridge instead of rerouting traffic in the area.

On the other hand, Frasco said they have implemented the traffic management plan since July 24, and have also cleared the sidewalks and thoroughfares from illegal obstructions.

“We have made some headway into traffic alleviation and this is due to everyone's cooperation,” Frasco said.

The traffic management plan was crafted after thorough study, discussion, physical surveys, and dialogue with stakeholders, taking into consideration all relevant factors, according to the Liloan Traffic Commission.

Barangay Tanods have also been deputized to assist the LITCOM, especially during peak hours.

Frasco is calling everybody to cooperate and comply with the laws.

“And while it is tempting to complain at the first instance, I ask that you comply first, with objectivity and an open mind. Your local government commits to always act in accordance with law and what is best for the general welfare,” Frasco added. — /KBQ (FREEMAN)