REGIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge Collapses: 6 Rescued, Investigation Underway
Photo credit: MDRRMO Cabagan
A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in Cabagan, Isabela on the night of February 27, 2025, after a section of the newly built Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge suddenly collapsed around 8:00 PM. Emergency response teams from the Municipal and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (MDRRMC and PDRRMC) rushed to the scene to assist the victims.
According to MDRRMC reports, six people were immediately taken to Milagros Albano District Hospital with minor injuries, except for one child who suffered severe injuries and had to be transferred to Cagayan Valley Medical Center for further treatment.
What Happened?
The bridge collapse involved four vehicles: a dump truck carrying boulders, two sports utility vehicles, and a motorcycle.
The SUVs were carrying passengers from Barangay Catabayungan, Cabagan, and Barangay Calamagui, Santa Maria, while the motorcycle rider, a minor, was from Barangay Cansan, Cabagan.
Rescue teams confirmed that six people, including two children, were pulled from the wreckage. However, the driver and assistant of the overloaded dump truck were nowhere to be found at the crash site, raising questions about their whereabouts.
Bridge Collapse Details
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) released an official statement confirming that the collapsed section was the 3rd span (from the Cabagan side), measuring 60 meters long. The structure gave way when the dump truck—carrying an estimated 102 tons of boulders—crossed it.
The bridge, which took over a decade to complete, had only been finished on February 1, 2025, at a total cost of ₱1.2 billion. Built by contractor R.D. Interior, Jr. Construction, it spanned 990 meters with 12 arch bridge sections and additional pre-stressed concrete girders.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are now investigating the possible causes of the collapse, including whether the truck exceeded the bridge’s weight limit. DPWH Region 2 has requested structural experts from their central office to assess the damage and determine the next steps.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Engineering Department of Cabagan is coordinating with DPWH for a full damage assessment.
As the investigation continues, motorists and residents are advised to avoid the area. More updates to follow.
According to MDRRMC reports, six people were immediately taken to Milagros Albano District Hospital with minor injuries, except for one child who suffered severe injuries and had to be transferred to Cagayan Valley Medical Center for further treatment.
What Happened?
The bridge collapse involved four vehicles: a dump truck carrying boulders, two sports utility vehicles, and a motorcycle.
The SUVs were carrying passengers from Barangay Catabayungan, Cabagan, and Barangay Calamagui, Santa Maria, while the motorcycle rider, a minor, was from Barangay Cansan, Cabagan.
Rescue teams confirmed that six people, including two children, were pulled from the wreckage. However, the driver and assistant of the overloaded dump truck were nowhere to be found at the crash site, raising questions about their whereabouts.
Bridge Collapse Details
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) released an official statement confirming that the collapsed section was the 3rd span (from the Cabagan side), measuring 60 meters long. The structure gave way when the dump truck—carrying an estimated 102 tons of boulders—crossed it.
The bridge, which took over a decade to complete, had only been finished on February 1, 2025, at a total cost of ₱1.2 billion. Built by contractor R.D. Interior, Jr. Construction, it spanned 990 meters with 12 arch bridge sections and additional pre-stressed concrete girders.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are now investigating the possible causes of the collapse, including whether the truck exceeded the bridge’s weight limit. DPWH Region 2 has requested structural experts from their central office to assess the damage and determine the next steps.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Engineering Department of Cabagan is coordinating with DPWH for a full damage assessment.
As the investigation continues, motorists and residents are advised to avoid the area. More updates to follow.
Feb 28, 2025
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