Adetour bridge atKaliwet Bridge inSanto Domingo, Ilocos Sur collapsed onSaturday, May 2, after a reportedly overloaded dump truck attempted to cross, according to theDepartment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The agency said the truck was carrying an estimated102 tons of cargo — far exceeding the bridge's design capacity.
Truck Load Far Exceeded Limits
The dump truck, which was using the temporary structure, caused the bridge to buckle and fall into the river below. No injuries were immediately reported, but the incident shut down a critical alternate route for motorists.
DPWH Confirms Overload
The DPWH Ilocos Sur field office confirmed the truck's weight, noting that102 tons is more than10 times the typical load limit for many temporary bridges. The detour structure was built to bypass the collapsedBayugao bridge inBarangay Sagat, Sta. Cruz, which remains impassable for any type of vehicle.
Chain of Bridge Failures
This collapse is the second in the area within recent months. TheBayugao bridge had earlier failed, prompting the DPWH to erect the detour that has now also given way. The agency is now conducting an investigation into the structural integrity of other temporary bridges in the region.
Alternate Routes Affected
Motorists traveling betweenSanto Domingo andSta. Cruz now face longer detours. The DPWH has advised heavy vehicles to avoid the area and is working on a rapid repair plan.
Wider Implications for Philippine Infrastructure
The incident highlights a persistent issue in the Philippines:overloaded trucks on roads and bridges not designed for such heavy loads. In 2025 alone, theLand Transportation Office (LTO) recorded over3,000 violations for overloading nationwide, but enforcement remains spotty.
Safety Recommendations
Engineers suggest that weight sensors and stricter monitoring be placed at all temporary bridges. The DPWH has yet to announce if it will retrofit the remaining detour bridges inIlocos Sur with reinforced supports.
For Filipino Readers
This event serves as a wake-up call for both drivers and government agencies. When a detour meant to provide safety becomes a hazard itself, it underscores the need for rigorous compliance with load limits and timely infrastructure audits. Filipinos relying on these alternate routes — especially in rural areas — deserve assurance that temporary structures are built to last.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Kaliwet detour bridge collapse?
The bridge collapsed after an overloaded dump truck carrying102 tons of cargo attempted to cross. The weight exceeded the bridge's design limits.
Were there any injuries?
No injuries have been reported. The incident occurred without any nearby pedestrians or vehicles being caught in the collapse.
What is the DPWH doing now?
The DPWH Ilocos Sur office is conducting an investigation, planning repairs, and reviewing the structural safety of other temporary bridges in the region. They are also advising heavy vehicles to use alternative routes.
How does this affect travelers in Ilocos Sur?
Motorists betweenSanto Domingo andSta. Cruz face longer detours. TheBayugao bridge in Barangay Sagat remains closed, compounding transportation challenges in the area.
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