Locals compelled to zipline across Negros Occidental river

Though dangerous, residents of Barangay Hawaiian in Silay, Negros Occidental have no choice but to use a zipline to cross a river on their way to work, according to Adrian Prietos’ report on “24 Oras Weekend.”

“Lalo na kapag wala kaming trabaho. Wala kaming pensyon. May sakit pa ang asawa ko,” said local Neljean Mercado.

The residents were forced to use the zipline after a bridge in the area was destroyed. Another bridge in the area was also destroyed by flooding.

“Merong isa na galing din sa kabila. Sinakay din sa zipline kasi parang hindi siya makahinga. Dinala siya sa ospital,” Edna Britanico said.

The local government planned to build a new bridge. However, this would take time as the LGU is just about to start the bidding process.

“Mahirap sagutin kung kailan dahil sabi nga natin, ang City Engineer’s Office gagawa pa lang ng plano at ibi-bidding pa ‘yan,” Barangay Chairman Henry Belleza said.

While there is another entrance to the area, residents said this was some distance away.

Meanwhile, they are unable to use a small raft as the river current was too strong. — Joahna Lei Casilao/DVM, GMA News