Pimentel seeks probe of collapsing bridges

MANILA, Philippines — Following the collapse of a newly opened bridge in Isabela last week, Sen. Koko Pimentel has called for an inquiry into reports of recurring incidents of collapsing bridges in the country.

Pimentel filed Senate Resolution 1319, which seeks to hold accountable public officials, private contractors and other parties involved in the project.

He said the adequacy of infrastructure policies must be assessed, to ensure safety and reliability of bridge structures nationwide.

Meanwhile, Sen. Bong Revilla Jr. ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to submit a report of its investigation into incidents involving bridges that collapse.

Revilla said aside from privatecontractors, DPWH officials involved in projects that turn out to be faulty should also be held accountable.

He said the Senate committee on public works, which he chairs, is prepared to deliberate on the matter should Pimentel’s proposal be referred to the committee.

Aside from the committee on public works, Revilla said the Blue Ribbon committee may also take up the resolution.

The number of bridges that have collapsed has reportedly reached an alarming level.

The incidents have resulted in fatalities, injuries and significant economic losses, raising concerns over deficiencies in engineering and design, use of substandard materials, lack of proper oversight and possible corruption.

The latest is the P1.22-billion Cabagan-Santa Maria Bridge in Isabela that collapsed on Thursday night, just weeks after its opening.

The incident injured six people, with another reported missing.

On Oct. 28, 2024, the Magapi Bridge in Balete, Batangas collapsed allegedly due to floodwaters spawned by Typhoon Kristine.

The Bantilan Bridge, which connects Batangas and Quezon, reportedly collapsed on Oct. 29, 2022 due to strong underwater current.