More sentiments from residents on the absence of a bridge in sitio Kasilak, Barangay Sagayen in Asuncion, Davao del Norte surfaced following a video of students risking their lives to cross a river in the area.

The residents called on government to build a bridge at the river so they can go on with their daily lives without having to face safety concerns day by day.

The residents said crossing the river remains a challenge, especially when transporting patients to the hospital.

A resident, Helbert Camposo, said they are often left with no choice but to swim through the water just to bring a patient across the river, especially when the water rises.

“Naay time nga mobaha, syempre, no choice mi kinahanglan molangoy mi para lang gyud ang pasyente makatabok ana gyud kapait,” he said.

The absence of a bridge has also made it difficult for farmers to transport their products.

Farmers also find it hard to transport their products.

“Bangka lisod kay mayabo kung daghan karga maong gipalutaw na lang nako,” a farmer said.

The video that went viral showed students crossing the river using what appears to be a zipline just to get to school. The video, taken on March 3, 2026, showed students pulling themselves along a rope attached to a cable as they cross the river.

Their boat was reportedly swept away by floodwaters, leaving them with no other means to cross the river.

A few days later, the boat was recovered, but it still has no outriggers, making it difficult to balance as a slight mistake could cause it to capsize, which is especially dangerous for children.

The boat also has several holes, forcing passengers to scoop out water to prevent it from sinking while they pull the rope to move forward.

Despite the danger, the students endure the situation just to pursue their dream of finishing their education.

“Wala man mi laing choice kay mao ramana sakyanan padung eskwelahan. Need gyud namo og hanging bridge,” a student said.

“lisod gyud kaayo siya kay usahay maunlod siya. Dili mi usahay katabok, sige rapud mig ka-late,” another student added.

A mother expressed fear and worry.

“Grabe akong kahadlok ug kabalaka. Malipay na lang mi nga makaabot sa daplin among mga anak nga safety,” a mother, Maricel Albiso, added.

Because of the situation, some children have already stopped going to school, including the four children of Rosalinda Pesiao who have special needs.

“Niundang na lang og eskwela, ma’am, tungod sa sitwasyon nga maglisod gyud ko,” Pesiao said.

Residents said they have long been requesting for the construction of a bridge to address their problem.

“Dugay na namo ning hangyo nga magkatulay dinhi tungod sa kalisod namo dinhi,” a resident said.