Authorities are considering deploying a military armored vehicle-launched bridge to provide temporary access across the collapsed Angana Bridge in Tarlac City, an official said.

According to a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, Tarlac Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief Marvin Guiang said the military proposed using the asset, which was tested during the Philippines-U.S. Balikatan exercises.

Guiang said an M60 military tank from the 522nd Engineer Construction Battalion could reach the damaged section of the Angana Bridge. The military bridge spans up to 50 meters and could serve as an alternative crossing while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) builds a temporary bridge.

“Gamit sila noong Balikatan. Kaya sila nandito ngayon, nag-usap na sila ng DPWH, tinitingnan nila yung stability, yung haba,” Guiang said.

The proposal still needs to undergo technical assessment and approval by the engineering office and the Tarlac provincial government.

The Aquino and Angara bridges collapsed on consecutive days, Friday and Saturday after the Tarlac River swelled amid heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon, or habagat.

The bridge collapses disrupted the connection between Tarlac City and several municipalities in the province, as well as neighboring Pangasinan province.

A vehicle carrying five people also fell during the incident. One person was rescued, while four others remained missing as of 2:30 p.m., Guiang said.

Search and rescue operations are continuing, with the provincial DRRMO receiving assistance from the Philippine Air Force and Philippine Army.

As of the latest update, authorities have yet to establish leads on the whereabouts of the four missing individuals.