By LIEZLE BASA IÑIGO
Governor Edgar “Manong Egay” Aglipay has ordered a full investigation into the collapse of the Piggatan Bridge in Barangay Piggatan, Alcala, Cagayan, which gave way Monday afternoon, Oct. 6, as several trailer trucks were crossing.
The governor directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 2 to determine whether truck operators and drivers violated weight restrictions, and to file appropriate charges if warranted.
He immediately coordinated with Alcala Mayor Tin Antonio, DPWH Assistant Regional Director Rona Ubinia, District Engineer Oscar Gumiran, and Police Colonel Mardito Anguluan of the Cagayan Police to implement a rerouting plan for commuters and motorists.
According to Mayor Antonio, the bridge—built 45 years ago—is the oldest in Alcala and was designed to carry vehicles weighing no more than 18 tons.
Initial reports indicate that three to four 10-wheel trailer trucks loaded with agricultural products, each allegedly weighing around 50 tons, were on the bridge when it collapsed around 4:30 p.m.
The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office confirmed the bridge is now impassable to all types of vehicles.
Police authorities responded swiftly, assisting in the evacuation of injured individuals and managing traffic congestion in the area.
The DPWH 1st District Engineering Office advised motorists to take alternate routes via Junction Gattaran-Cumao-Capissayan-Santa Margarita Bolos Point Road and Baybayog-Baggao-Santa Margarita Road.
Warning signages have been installed, and a thorough damage assessment is underway.
The agency said it will issue recommendations based on the results of its investigation.
