Probe collapse of Kalinga bridge - solon

A lawmaker from Kalinga province urged Malacañang yesterday to conduct an investigation into the "embarrassing" collapse of the P100-million Pasil bridge in the province.

"To avoid another embarrassing fiasco like this, ongoing bridge projects should be carefully evaluated and not rushed to completion," Kalinga Rep. Lawrence Wacnang said in a statement.

Wacnang made the call amid proposals that all bridge projects being constructed by the government across the country undergo a "thorough review" to ensure that vital links are structurally sound and safe to motorists.

He suggested that the probe should cover 50 bridges undergoing construction and about to be completed this summer.

"This includes, among others, three major bridges in Metro Manila — La Huerte bridge in Parañaque, Sevilla bridge in Mandaluyong City and Tullahan bridge in Valenzuela," the congressman added.

The 90-meter "suspension-type" Pasil bridge, which links Kalinga to Mountain Province, and built with assistance from the British government, collapsed last Feb. 8, even before local government authorities could inaugurate it.

Some nine workers were hurt in the accident. Wacnang sought an explanation from Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Florante Soriquez.