GMA Kapuso Foundation inaugurates bridge in Rodriguez, Rizal

The GMA Kapuso Foundation has inaugurated a new and sturdy bridge in Barangay Puray, Rodriguez, Rizal, just in time for Christmas. 

According to "24 Oras," Wednesday, it is a 15-meter-long cable-suspended concrete and steel hanging bridge and the 10th bridge in the country constructed under the foundation's Kapuso Tulay Para sa Kaunlaran project.

The bridge will benefit the likes of Rufino San Jose Sr., a Dumagat Remontado from Brgy. Puray, who often crosses the fast-flowing river while carrying produce such as sweet potatoes and gabi. 

"Sinisikap naming maitawid mga hanggang baywang, hanggang kili-kili," he shared. "Pero kung tumagal ang baha, eh lalo na 'yung mga katulad ng sa 'kin, kung maramihan naman, siyempre, mabubulok naman 'yun." 

The GMA Kapuso Foundation, in partnership with the 80th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and with donations from the Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP)s, constructed the bridge, ensuring it can support motorcycles and withstand up to four tons. 

"Nagdagdag tayo ng screen sa magkabilang side ng ating side rail para safe 'yung mga maliliit na bata na tumawid," said GMA Kapuso Foundation Supervising Engineer Arnel Zantua. 

"Makakaasa ang ating mga kababayan na lahat ng mga pondo na dino-donate po nila dito sa GMA Kapuso Foundation ay talagang pumupunta po sa mga dapat mag-benepisyo," also said AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner. 

Per the report, the bridge took almost four months to build. Trees were also planted in the area to provide additional protection to the community.

Napuruhan talaga sila ng bagyong Carina at ang talagang naapektuhan dito, 'yung population ng mga katutubo. Priority population ng GMA Kapuso Foundation are indigenous peoples. Talagang inuuna natin sila, " said GMA Kapuso Foundation EVP & COO Rikki Escudero-Catibog. 

For those who wish to support GMA Kapuso Foundation's projects, donations may be made via Metrobank, Land Bank, BDO, Bank of Commerce, UnionBank, PNB, Cebuana Lhuillier, GCash, Lazada, and Shopee. Visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website for more information.

—CDC, GMA Integrated News