Bridges are crucial infrastructure for the economic development of a place as well as for the safety of motorists, commuters and all forms of road users; hence, other than roads, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is mandated to build bridges and other infrastructures.
In north-central Iloilo, DPWH-Iloilo 2nd District Engineering Office implemented three significant bridge projects – the ongoing widening of Monfort Bridge in Dumangas town; and the completed rehabilitation of Magapa Bridge in the town of Janiuay, and Suage Bridge in Pototan town.
Citing a report from District Engineer Allan Rey R. Pajimna, OIC-Regional Director Sanny Boy Oropel said these bridge improvement projects ensure uninterrupted flow of traffic along various national roads, providing motorists and road users with smoother and more convenient transportation access.
“These bridges are built along major road networks in various towns in north-central Iloilo. Thus, improving these structures will facilitate faster and continuous access of people, products and services,” Engr. Oropel said.
“These projects will provide stronger connectivity and safety; minimize traffic congestion, especially during rush hours; and offer a safer and more effective transportation system,” he added.
DE Pajimna said the rehabilitation of bridges is necessary to ensure the safety of motorists and road users and provide hassle-free transportation access.
“The rehabilitation of these bridges is undertaken to ensure their structural integrity and maximize their load capacity. The improved bridge facilitates safer transportation compared to the dilapidated and nearly deteriorated portions of the bridges, to ensure the safety of the people,” Pajimna said.
The ₱19.6-million project along Monfort Bridge involves widening the existing 2-lane, 25-lineal meter bridge to complement the 4-lane Barotac Nuevo-Dumangas-Dacutan Wharf Road.
The ₱5.57-million rehabilitation of Magapa Bridge involves full retrofitting to include removal of deteriorated materials, installation of carbon fiber plates and asphalt plug joints, restoration of steel structures and waterproofing of deck slab.
The ₱18.4-million repair of Suage Bridge involves sealing of deck slab and girders, asphalt overlaying and pavement markings, installation of carbon fiber sheets and asphalt plug joints, and provision if posts and railings. (DPWH-6)
