The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has launched an investigation into the partial collapse of the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge in Isabela, which occurred Thursday night.
According to DPWH Region 2, a portion of the bridge gave way at around 8 p.m. after a dump truck carrying boulders—reportedly weighing 102 tons—crossed the structure. The bridge’s maximum load capacity is 45 tons, nearly half the weight of the truck.
“Further analysis on the cause of failure is still ongoing, and DPWH Region 2 has requested experts from the Bureau of Design and Bureau of Construction in the Central Office to conduct further evaluation and assessment,” the agency said in a statement.
The bridge, spanning 990 meters with multiple arch and pre-stressed concrete girder spans, was completed just last year on February 1, 2024, with a total project cost of over PHP 1.2 billion. It was also retrofitted in March 2023 to reinforce its structure in accordance with updated earthquake safety standards.
DPWH Region 2 Officer in Charge and Regional Director Matias Malenab explained that the retrofitting did not indicate flaws in the original design. “Ang main reason ng retrofitting natin is to additional strengthening para sa earthquake effect po,” he said.
Six people, including an eight-year-old cancer survivor, were injured in the incident. The child sustained a broken leg and required surgery, while others suffered minor injuries such as cuts and bruises. Two SUVs and a scooter were also damaged.
Authorities initially reported the truck driver as missing, but later confirmed that he had surrendered to the Cabagan police.
DPWH has identified the contractor responsible for the bridge as R.D. Interior, Jr. Construction. Investigators are currently assessing the structural integrity of the remaining sections of the bridge to prevent further incidents.
