Demolition and replacement needed: Bridge unavailable for 15 months

CEBU, Philippines — Starting this month and in the next 15 months, the Sanciangko Bridge near the Taboan Public Market in Cebu City would not be accessible to motorists.

This is because the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is demolishing the existing bridge to give way for the construction of a new one worth P13 million, which is funded by the national government.

City Councilor Jerry Guardo, City Council committee on infrastructure chairman, said the decision to demolish the bridge, which was built in 1953, stemmed from the assessment that the structural integrity of the bridge could no longer be trusted.

That is why, he said, the DPWH has recommended the replacement of the 71-year-old structure.

“And they were able to secure clearance from the Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission (CHAC) kay na-cover man na siya sa historical nga commission (as potential heritage structure),” the councilor said.

He said the parts of the bridge are already rusty as an effect of the river’s waters.

“Di na gyud siya safe,” he said.

Guardo said the civil works are projected to start within the month because DPWH should first secure a road closure permit from the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) and another permit from the Commission on Audit (COA) since a government-owned structure would be destroyed.

He said Phase 1 (demolition of the existing bridge) shall be done within 199 days while Phase 2 (construction of the new bridge) shall be done within 251 days, or a total of roughly 15 months.

“So, demolition and the construction of the replacement,” Guardo said.

“Totally closed gyud sya. Of course, we have to prepare a rerouting plan. That will be endorsed by the Traffic Management and Coordination Council (TMC) sa (City) Council,” Guardo said.

And once the City Council approves the rerouting plan, it still needs to be printed in a local publication to inform the public.

He said construction should begin this year, otherwise the budget would revert back to the national coffers once 2024 has ended. —/RHM (FREEMAN)