President Marcos has attributed the collapse of the newly opened Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge in Isabela to a “design flaw” and cost-cutting measures, which led to a weakened structure.
The bridge, which opened on February 1, collapsed just 26 days later after being crossed by trucks that exceeded the bridge’s weight limit.
Marcos noted that the project’s cost was reduced from P1.8 billion to less than P1 billion, leading to a poor design that failed under stress.
Environmental and militant groups are calling for a full investigation into the collapse, citing potential corruption and substandard materials used in construction.
The government has vowed to hold those responsible accountable and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 7, 2025
