Piggatan bridge in Alcala, Cagayan collapses

MANILA, Philippines (Updated 7:11 p.m.) — Several ten-wheeler trucks were caught on the three-decade old Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan when it collapsed on Monday afternoon, October 6, the Cagayan Provincial Information Office reported.

The collapse reportedly occurred around 5:30 p.m., just as many people were heading home from work.

Piggatan Bridge fell as an 18-wheeler trailer truck loaded with palay was crossing.

No injuries have been reported so far as authorities responded to the scene.

The Piggatan Bridge connects the northern barangays of Alcala to the town center and main highways leading to Tuguegarao City.

Following the collapse, motorists are now forced to take a much longer route through Gattaran, Baggao, or Peñablanca—routes that, according to authorities, could add several hours to travel time.

Police have stated that the collapse will be investigated, as there is no clear indication yet of whether the bridge had sustained prior damage or if the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) recently assessed its integrity.

The bridge remains off-limits to vehicles while authorities evaluate the extent of the damage.

This is a developing story.