A temporary steel bridge has opened between Cabagan and Sta. Maria in Isabela, more than a year after part of the original structure collapsed.

The connector bridge allows vehicles weighing up to three tons to pass, restoring limited access for motorists and communities nearby.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said safety remains the top priority as the government works on a long-term solution.

“Sisiguruhin natin, ang pinaka-importante safe. Kailangan nating solusyunan yung problema, kailangan natin gawing permanente yung solusyon,” Dizon said.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) also committed to build a permanent bridge within two years.

Dizon added that authorities will still pursue accountability over the earlier collapse of the bridge.

“Pero syempre, yung pananagutan dun sa nakaraan, eh, ibang usapan yon. Kailangan paimbestigahan rin natin yon. So, wala tayong magagawa diyan kasi ano e, nasayang yung pondo ng gobyerno,” he said.

Local governments of Cabagan and Sta. Maria will coordinate with the DPWH to enforce 24/7 traffic management on the temporary structure. Authorities set a speed limit of 20 kilometers per hour while crossing the bridge.

Part of the previous bridge collapsed in February last year after an overloaded truck passed through it. During his visit to the site, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. said the bridge had a design defect.

The new steel connector aims to ease travel disruptions while construction of the permanent bridge moves forward.