Repair Marikina Bridge or face raps, DPWH told

MANILA, Philippines — The Marikina government yesterday called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to immediately repair the damage on the Marikina Bridge or face charges.

Mayor Marcelino Teodoro said the DPWH should repair the cracks on the bridge located in Barangay Sto. Nino, which he believes was the result of the ongoing construction work by the department for the Sumulong flood interceptor project.

Teodoro said the local government would sue the DPWH if the agency fails to address the damage, which poses danger to motorists.

“We are expecting the immediate action of the DPWH. Otherwise we will be constrained to file legal actions if this matter will not be addressed promptly and accordingly,” he said.

To protect motorists, Teodoro said they closed a portion of the bridge heading toward Katipunan-Cubao area in Quezon City.

The mayor said they informed DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan that they noticed the cracks and fissures at the approach of the bridge on Jan 6.

Teodoro said they also informed DPWH National Capital Region director Loreta Malaluan, who in turn promised to conduct an investigation of the incident.