DPWH, contractor called out over delayed project

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Councilor Sisinio Andales has raised concern over what he described as a “glaring failure of accountability and transparency” surrounding the long-delayed rehabilitation of the Sanciangko Bridge, a vital link connecting downtown Cebu to major thoroughfares and three densely populated barangays.

In a privileged speech during the City Council’s regular session, Andales criticized the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and its contractor, Power Frame Construction and Development Corporation, for the stalled P13.9-million project.

The 50-meter bridge was demolished on August 6, 2024, and the construction of a new one was originally slated for completion in May 2025. But as of November 2025, work remains unfinished.

“A bridge near yet too far,” Andales said, lamenting the daily inconvenience, economic disruption, and heightened flood risks faced by residents of Barangays Pahina Central, Pahina San Nicolas, and San Nicolas Proper.

“This is not just a delay. It is also a hazard,” the councilor said.

The 71-year-old Sanciangko Bridge is more than just infrastructure, he stressed, calling it a critical artery linking V. Rama Avenue, Natalio Bacalso Avenue, and C. Padilla Street. Its closure has diverted motorists to already congested roads and disrupted access to the Taboan Public Market, affecting vendors and commuters alike.

Andales, a former barangay captain of Pahina Central, recalled that a temporary footbridge had been installed to connect residents of Pahina Central and San Nicolas Proper. However, it was destroyed during Typhoon Tino, which also caused severe flooding in the area.

“Floodwaters reached rooftops,” he said, noting that even his own home was inundated, damaging personal belongings.

He also cited Mayor Nestor Archival’s visit to the site on October 24, during which the mayor reportedly expressed dismay over the absence of visible progress and questioned the contractor’s move to fill more than half the width of the river—an action residents believe worsened flooding during the typhoon.

While Andales acknowledged challenges such as the relocation of informal settlers, the presence of utility poles, and delays in securing permits from the City Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission, he stressed that these do not excuse the lack of updates or urgency from the implementing agencies.

“Where is DPWH in all of this fiasco?” he asked. “Why has there been no comprehensive update? Why has the contractor not given an account of the missed deadlines and alleged missteps?”

The councilor moved to hold an executive session on December 9, inviting representatives from DPWH Region 7, the Cebu City District Engineering Office, and Power Frame Construction to explain the delay and present a clear timeline for completion. He also urged immediate measures to reduce flood risks in the area.

“Mubo ra kaayo, pero dugay nahuman,” Andales said, underscoring the growing frustration of affected communities. “The people of Cebu deserve better. The Sanciangko Bridge must rise again—stronger, safer, and without further delay.” — /FPL (FREEMAN)