By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
The Department of Public Works and Highways Western Visayas (DPWH-6) has announced that the bidding for the second phase of repairs on the defective Ungka flyover is scheduled for September 24.
DPWH-6 Director Sanny Boy Oropel confirmed to Daily Guardian that the design for the second phase, which will address vertical displacement issues at piers 4, 5, and 6, has been finalized.
These piers sank by more than one foot between May 2022 and April 2023, according to a geotechnical investigation by a third-party consultant.
Oropel declined to provide details about the proposed design but mentioned that a press conference would be held later this month to explain the seismic test results and the next steps.
“Right after the bidding on September 24, maybe I will be calling a press conference […] where I will explain the development of the seismic test we conducted,” Oropel said on Sunday.
The design is based on the results of daily seismic tests conducted since January to monitor soil improvements through jet grouting across all 16 piers.
Phase 2 will focus on rectifying the settlement at piers 4, 5, and 6, which involves removing and demolishing the spans supported by these piers.
Originally, the work was to be performed by International Builders Corporation, the original contractor of the flyover.
However, Oropel noted that additional bored piles might be installed at piers 4, 5, and 6 to expedite the repairs.
Phase 1 of the rectification is currently around 87% complete, with DPWH-6 aiming for completion by the end of October.
Full use of the flyover, originally targeted for August, is now expected by November.
The flyover was closed to motorists in September 2022 due to safety concerns and partially reopened in September 2023, allowing only the interior lane for four-wheeled vehicles.
