CABANATUAN CITY (PIA) -- Construction of a bridge parallel to the aging Cabu Bridge along the Nueva Ecija-Aurora Road in Cabanatuan City is in full swing.
The 50.7-meter infrastructure has an initial allocation of P92.6 million in the 2023 national budget.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Nueva Ecija 2nd District Engineer Elpidio Trinidad disclosed that the first phase of the project, which involves the construction of concrete supports and installation of steel girders to provide the necessary structural reinforcement for the bridge's concrete slab, is 70 percent complete as of October 19.
"Construction is currently in full swing as we need to expedite the building of this parallel bridge. We frequently encounter accessibility issues due to the Cabu Bridge's incapacity to accommodate heavy vehicles, leading to longer routes for trucks heading to Dingalan and the eastern towns of Nueva Ecija," he explained.
Due to its historical significance, the Cabu Bridge cannot be torn down or replaced; hence, the construction of the bridge adjacent to the old structure is necessary.
Assistant District Engineer Robert Jay Panaligan noted that the project's completion, including the construction of bridge approaches, has been integrated into the District Engineering Office’s 2024 Annual Infrastructure Program with an allocated budget of P29 million.
"We are aware that heritage preservation advocates are opposing the replacement of the Cabu Bridge. It holds historical significance as a landmark associated with the Great Raid, a mission aimed at liberating American and Filipino prisoners of war and civilians from a Japanese camp in Cabanatuan City," Panaligan shared.
Upon completion, heavy vehicles will no longer need to take detours through General Natividad or the Sta. Rosa-Dingalan Road when traveling to Palayan City and its neighboring municipalities, ensuring more convenient travel for both motorists and heavy trucks.
"This parallel bridge will serve heavy trucks, while the old bridge will be designated for light vehicles. It has the potential to reduce both time and costs associated with inter-town travel, promoting economic and tourism activities in the province. This approach balances the preservation of our cultural heritage with the advancement of modern infrastructure," Panaligan pressed.
DPWH eyes completion of the project by the first quarter of 2025. (CLJD-PIA 3)
