PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., along with Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan and DPWH Region IV-A Assistant Regional Director Joel F. Limpengco, on Monday conducted a site inspection of the damaged Bugaan Bridge in Laurel, Batangas.

The four-lane Bugaan Bridge, spanning 38.5 meters, suffered extensive damage during Severe Tropical Storm Kristine..

The DPWH officials have proposed constructing a bridge, with an extended span of 50 meters.

The proposed four-lane bridge is expected to cost approximately P150 million, according to the DPWH.

The DPWH officials also said the slope protection measures are also necessary to prevent future landslides and erosion in the surrounding area.

Bonoan briefed the President on immediate actions, including the construction of a temporary spillway bridge, which will serve as an alternative crossing point for residents and vehicles while the main bridge undergoes reconstruction.

The DPWH also identified an alternate route through Laurel-Canyon Woods Road via Bugaan West, which will facilitate travel between affected areas and help ease traffic congestion around the damaged site.

The inspection was also attended by Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Mayor Lyndon Masicat Bruce of Laurel, Batangas; DPWH Region IV-A chief of Planning and Design Division engineer Ray Andrew K. Molano ,and Batangas 3rd DEO assistant district engineer Benson P. Tesnado.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Gil Aman