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The Department of Public Works and Highways says preliminary findings indicate three trucks carrying cargo exceeded the Piggatan Bridge’s 18-ton capacity
MANILA, Philippines – The Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan, collapsed on Monday afternoon, October 6.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said in a statement on Monday that preliminary findings indicate that three trucks, each weighing around 50 tons, were on the bridge at the time, “far exceeding” its 18-ton capacity and likely causing the structure to collapse.
Cagayan Governor Edgar Aglipay said in an interview with DZMM Teleradyo that two of the trucks were carrying rice, while the third was loaded with steel.
“Itong bridge na ito ay may kalumaan na. Nagsabay ang dalawang truck na may lulan na palay na around 40 to 50 tons, at isang truck na may lulan na 40 tons na bakal,” Aglipay said.
(This bridge is already quite old. Two trucks carrying around 40 to 50 tons of rice crossed at the same time, along with another truck carrying 40 tons of steel.)
The drivers of the trucks are all under the custody of the Philippine National Police, according to the governor.
Aglipay also called for an immediate restoration plan for the collapsed bridge, noting its importance ahead of the upcoming harvest season, since it serves as a vital link between Alcala and Aparri. He ordered the creation of a rerouting plan to ensure the continued movement of goods between the northern and southern parts of Cagayan.
Alcala Mayor Cristina “Tin” Antonio advised light vehicles to use the Piggatan Circumferential Road as an alternate route. Meanwhile, heavy vehicles were directed to take the Baybayog, Alcala–San Jose, Baggao–Capissayan, and Dummun, Gattaran roads.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said he has dispatched a team to conduct a thorough damage assessment of the bridge.
The Cagayan governor also asked the DPWH regional office in Cagayan Valley to identify other bridges that may need monitoring to prevent similar incidents. – Rappler.com
