April 19, 2024 - Residents of Luna, Isabela, can breathe a sigh of relief as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) recently completed the rehabilitation and strengthening of the typhoon-damaged Lalog Bridge.
This vital artery, connecting Barangay Lalog 2 to the rest of the municipality, took a beating from typhoons Ulysses (2020) and Paeng (2022). The damage wasn't just inconvenient; it threatened the safety and economic well-being of the community.
"The bridge facilitates residents' access to essential services, including health facilities, schools, and trade establishments, furthering the socio-economic development of the area," said DPWH Region II Director Reynaldo C. Alconcel.
According to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, the project addressed the bridge's structural weaknesses by:
- Replacing nine (9) span steel decks
- Reinforcing nine (9) piers with 18 steel casings each
- Installing 35 stringer beams
These significant repairs were undertaken by the DPWH Isabela 2nd District Engineering Office at a cost of P38.2 million. The funding came from the 2023 DPWH Basic Infrastructure Program under the Sustainable Infrastructure Projects Alleviating Gaps (SIPAG) program.
With the Lalog Bridge back in top shape, residents can now travel safely and efficiently, ensuring access to crucial services and opportunities. This successful project exemplifies the DPWH's commitment to rebuilding infrastructure and empowering Filipino communities.