The 45 year old Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan recently collapsed after being subjected to the weight of three overloaded trucks. The incident disrupted traffic and drew attention to the maintenance and monitoring of aging infrastructure in the province. Authorities are now investigating and planning immediate reconstruction.
The Collapse Explained
According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the bridge could not withstand the combined load of the heavy trucks. Structural assessments revealed that decades of wear and tear had weakened the bridge making it vulnerable to such stress. Locals reported hearing loud cracks before the structure gave way entirely.
Response and Reconstruction
Officials are filing complaints against the truck owners for overloading the bridge and causing the collapse. DPWH Secretary Dizon confirmed that reconstruction will begin as soon as possible to restore connectivity. Meanwhile, provincial authorities are reviewing the integrity of other bridges to prevent similar accidents in the future.
The Piggatan Bridge collapse highlights the importance of infrastructure maintenance and responsible vehicle loading. Swift reconstruction and preventive inspections are vital to ensure the safety of commuters and the resilience of Cagayan’s transport network.
