The Agana Bridge in Tarlac City is set to reopen this week to light vehicles and pedestrians, three weeks after a portion of the bridge collapsed due to heavy rains and strong river currents brought by the southwest monsoon or Habagat, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said.
This comes after the temporary Bailey bridge was connected to the collapsed portion of the bridge on August 29.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. ordered the bridge reopened as soon as possible, noting that it serves as a critical link for motorists, commuters, and the movement of goods in the province.
According to DPWH, the reopening is expected to ease the burden on motorists and commuters who have had to take longer routes, including a one- to two-hour detour through Gerona, or use boats to cross the river.
Earlier, during an inspection of the bridge, Dizon said it could reopen as early as Monday or Tuesday, once the remaining work and load testing were completed.
“Kampante na tayo na by tomorrow, latest Tuesday, mabubuksan na natin itong bridge to light vehicles and pedestrians,” Dizon said in an interview.
Under the temporary arrangement, large trucks and buses will not be allowed to use the bridge. Four-wheeled vehicles, coasters, and Elf-type delivery trucks carrying goods will be permitted, provided they do not exceed the 10-ton weight limit.
“Definitely hindi pwede ang (malalaking) trucks, at hindi pwede ang buses. Pero 4-wheeled vehicles, coasters, yung mga Elf na delivery trucks na pandala ng mga goods, pwede yun,” Dizon said.
Tarlac Governor Christian Yap and Tarlac 2nd District Representative Maria Cristina “Cristy” Puno Cuello-Angeles also committed to helping ensure that the 10-ton weight restriction will be strictly enforced once the bridge reopens.
The Agana Bridge was damaged on August 29 amid heavy rains and strong water currents. A portion of the Aquino Bridge also collapsed on August 28 due to similar weather conditions.
