A portion of the newly constructed Cabagan-Santa Maria Bridge in Isabela collapsed on the evening of February 27, affecting multiple vehicles.
According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 2, the third span of the arch bridge, measuring 60 meters, gave way when a dump truck carrying boulders with an estimated gross vehicle weight of around 102 tons passed over it.
The bridge, which connects the towns of Cabagan and Santa Maria, was completed on February 1, 2025, after construction began in November 2014. The project, including approaches, cost P1.225 billion. It spans a total of 990 meters, consisting of 12 arch sections and nine pre-stressed concrete girder spans. The contractor for the project was R.D. Interior, Jr. Construction.
The collapse damaged four vehicles: a dump truck, two SUVs, and a motorcycle. Six individuals were rescued from the wreckage and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the structural failure. DPWH Region 2 has requested assistance from experts at the Bureau of Design and Bureau of Construction in the Central Office for further evaluation and assessment.
