New bridge underway to provide access to 5 island barangays in Ilocos Sur

2018-04-30 Arnold Quinoviva Balairos 기자

Manila, April 20 (Engineering Daily) -- A safer and sturdier bridge will soon be utilized by residents of five (5) island barangays in the town of Santa, Ilocos Sur as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undertakes the replacement of the old and damaged Calungbuyan Bridge.

In his report to DPWH Secretary Mark A. Villar, DPWH-Region I Director Ronnel M. Tan said that the Phase I of the project which involves the construction of a Langer Arch Design bridge measuring a total of 130 lineal meters with substructure and superstructure components, and a riverbank protection structure is now nearing completion at 93%. The construction of the remaining works will be undertaken immediately upon completion of Phase I.

“We’ll make sure to complete the construction just in time for the rainy season to provide fast, easier, and safer mobilization of goods and services by land instead of using motorized boats,” Director Tan said.

The new Calungbuyan Bridge will reconnect the town proper of Santa to five (5) island barangays namely: Rancho, Dammay, Calungbuyan, Oribi, and Casiber.

Over the years, the Calungbuyan Bridge has been challenged by numerous typhoons and due to heavy rains and strong river current caused by typhoon “Ineng”, the center portion collapsed and halted the transportation of goods and services by land.

Once reconnected, the bridge will improve livelihood and tourism potential of the secluded island barangays.