Residents of Sitio Lawayon in Barangay Mangile, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental were forced to cross a river despite the risks after the approach of a bridge in the barangay was damaged by strong current caused by heavy rains on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

The bridge remains closed to vehicles due to safety concerns, as of Monday, May 19.

The only alternative route to reach the town proper is a detour through General Santos City, which would take around two hours.

If the water level rises, residents have to wait for the water to subside before crossing the river.

Some parts of the river are reportedly deep, and residents fear being swept away by the strong current if they take a wrong step.

According to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), several motorcycles have been damaged as riders are forced to push them through the river.

“As per record po namin, dalawang beses gumuho yong portion na laging nada-damage. That was April 26 and May 18. Pero nakitaan na po sya ng minor scouring nong January. This was reported sa PDRRMO and DPWH until dumating yong April 26 na totally scoured na siya,” MDRRMO Head, Ariel Austin Acosta, said.

Residents are now appealing to authorities to expedite the repair of the damaged bridge.