The Daguitan Bridge in Burauen, Leyte partially collapsed early Friday after strong floodwaters triggered by Typhoon Opong weakened its foundation.
Authorities from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 2nd District Engineering Office immediately restricted four-wheeled vehicles from passing through the damaged bridge.
Burauen Mayor Warren Hermano confirmed that the central support post of the bridge gave way, citing the powerful river current caused by the typhoon.
The collapse happened around dawn, creating a dangerous gap that made the bridge unsafe for heavy vehicles, trucks, and other four-wheeled transport.
Motorcycles and tricycles remain allowed to cross the bridge, while DPWH strongly warned larger vehicles to use alternative routes for safety.
Engineers from DPWH inspected the site and issued an urgent advisory directing drivers of buses and cargo trucks toward Mayorga-Lapaz Road.
Residents reported that floodwaters rose rapidly overnight, carrying debris that slammed into the bridge structure, worsening the damage already caused by strong currents.
Mayor Hermano appealed to commuters and motorists to strictly follow DPWH instructions, stressing that public safety must remain the top priority amid difficulties.
Local disaster officials have begun monitoring the situation closely, with plans to deploy additional signage and traffic personnel to guide rerouted motorists.
Authorities assured the public that repair plans are underway, although the full restoration of the Daguitan Bridge could take weeks of urgent work.
Meanwhile, travelers expressed frustration over longer travel times, but many acknowledged that the restrictions are necessary to prevent further accidents and casualties.
DPWH urged patience and cooperation from motorists, reminding everyone that safety precautions, though inconvenient, are vital during ongoing recovery efforts after Typhoon Opong.
