Dizon inspects collapsed bridge

MANILA, Philippines — Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon inspected the collapsed Cabagan-Santa Maria bridge in Isabela province to find effective and immediate solutions to restore the 990-meter-long structure.

The inspection followed President Marcos’ directive to complete the clearing operations of the collapsed section and construct a detour bridge to connect the two agricultural towns.

Dizon said residents are forced to use boats to cross the river to and from the municipalities, as he stressed the need to restore public transport, access to services and economic activity in the area.

The bridge was built from 2014 to 2025, costing the government P1.22 billion. It was opened on Feb. 1 but collapsed on Feb. 27.

Then Public Works secretary Manuel Bonoan had ordered an investigation but failed to present the results of the probe. He blamed an overloaded truck for the bridge collapse.