President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. personally visited the Sta. Maria-Cabagan Bridge collapse site for an initial inspection and assessment of the ongoing investigation into the incident.
The visit came a week after a portion of the bridge collapsed on February 27.
The Isabela Provincial Government expects the inspection to expedite the investigation, potentially leading to a reassessment and reconstruction of the bridge.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo Cauayan, Isabela Governor Rodito Albano stated that the provincial government would appeal to President Marcos for immediate repairs, especially since residents of Isabela had highly anticipated the bridge’s opening.
The Sta. Maria-Cabagan Bridge was funded with ₱1.2 billion but collapsed just a month after it was opened for light vehicles.
The incident occurred after a dump truck carrying heavy cargo passed through the bridge.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) had earlier addressed corruption allegations related to the bridge’s construction.
Governor Albano urged the public to move forward rather than dwell on blame and political disputes.
The Police Regional Office 2, Isabela Police Provincial Office, and Presidential Security Guards provided security during the president’s visit.