DPWH to Sue Truck Driver Behind Isabela Bridge Collapse
DPWH – The Department of Public Works and Highways is preparing to file charges against the truck driver believed to be responsible for the collapse of the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge in Isabela, which happened in February 2025.
According to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, their technical investigation into the collapse of the ₱1-billion bridge has been completed. Based on the findings, the agency is set to file both civil and criminal cases within the week.
Secretary Bonoan shared that their recommendations include filing charges not only against the truck driver but also against other parties involved, such as the contractor and designer, due to possible lapses in construction quality and safety standards.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. also mentioned the incident during his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA). He firmly stated that the government will no longer tolerate corruption in infrastructure projects, poor design, substandard materials, project delays, and neglect in proper maintenance and repairs.
He cited the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge as a prime example—pointing out that it took ten years to complete, cost the public over ₱1 billion, and yet collapsed just days after being opened to the public. He criticized it for being expensive, time-consuming, and yet quickly damaged.
The collapse occurred on February 27, when a dump truck carrying large boulders, with an estimated gross vehicle weight of around 102 tons, passed over the bridge. According to DPWH Region II, the third span of the bridge (measuring 60 meters) gave way during the incident, injuring six individuals.
The Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge project began in November 2014 and was only completed this February 2025. The total cost, including the bridge and its approaches, reached ₱1.225 billion.
The DPWH is now determined to hold accountable all parties involved in the bridge’s premature collapse to ensure public funds are protected and similar incidents do not happen again.
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