Ilocos’ Kaliwet Bailey bridge collapses

MANILA, Philippines — A section of the Kaliwet Bailey bridge in Santo Domingo town in Ilocos Sur collapsed on Saturday after an overloaded 10-wheeler truck crossed the structure, the Department of Public Works and Highways reported.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said teams were mobilized to assess the extent of the damage on the bridge in Barangay Nalasin.

“The department will hold the truck operator accountable and urges all motorists to strictly adhere to load limits to ensure public safety,” Dizon said in a statement.

Citing initial reports, Dizon said the bridge collapsed after a 20-ton 10-wheeler truck crossed the bridge.

The bridge has a load limit of only five tons.

Dizon said DPWH personnel are managing traffic at the temporary bridge, which serves as a detour in the ongoing construction of a permanent bridge that is expected to be completed within the month.

He added that the district engineering office has completed embankment works establishing a 20-ton-capacity access route.

There is no information on any injuries in the incident.