DPWH inspects partially collapsed Tarlac bridge

MANILA – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Tarlac 1st District Engineering Office has conducted an inspection of the Aquino Bridge in Tarlac City, after a portion of the structure was damaged Friday evening.

In a statement on Saturday, the DPWH reported that the decades-old bridge sustained structural damage due to incessant rains brought by the southwest monsoon (habagat) and the strong current of the Tarlac River.

The inspection was conducted around 12:10 a.m. Saturday after a section of the bridge was damaged and subsequently closed to vehicular traffic at 11:56 p.m. Friday.

To ensure public safety, the agency immediately installed barricades and deployed personnel to conduct structural assessment.

Traffic restrictions were implemented at the Molave Y-junction in Barangay San Isidro to prevent buses, trucks, and heavy equipment from accessing the bridge, while the road remains accessible to local residents.

Motorists were advised to use alternative routes, such as the Agana Bridge.

The DPWH said it continues to coordinate with local agencies to manage traffic flow efficiently and is conducting a thorough study for the immediate repair of the bridge. (PNA)