Typhoon Egay destroys iconic Quirino Bridge in Ilocos Sur

Raging flood waters from heavy rains due to Typhoon Egay destroyed the Quirino Bridge, one of the iconic symbols of the province of Ilocos Sur.

According to a report by Ivy Hernando of GMA Regional TV One North Central  Luzon on "24 Oras," the bridge, also known as Old Banaoang, connects the towns of Bantay and Santa in the province.

In a separate Facebook post of the Philippine Information Agency of Ilocos Sur, it said that due to the "high water elevation and strong river current," two spans of the bridge, which included the Light Show equipment attached to it, "were swept away" on Thursday morning.

The control center of the light show remained intact, a local official said.

In 2001, Super Typhoon Feria also damaged a portion of the Quirino bridge.

Meanwhile, two bridges connecting Vigan City and nearby towns also collapsed.

“I-temporary close lang natin then afterwards mag-assess kami kung anong ilagay d’yan kasi magka-conduct pa tayo ng ocular,”  Ilocos Sur district engineer Reynaldo Organo said.

Residents endured deep floods as several rivers overflowed due to incessant rains.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office conducted rescue operation in various towns in the province.—Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News