DPWH announces improvements to Tarlac’s Agana Bridge, plans second bridge

MANILA — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) inspected the Agana Bridge in Tarlac on Thursday, reporting improvements to strengthen the structure.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said the bridge deck, which serves as the roadway for vehicles, was replaced over the past two days during a temporary closure from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

“Para lang mapalitan ng mas makinis at mas stable na decking para di maingay. Wala na akong naramdaman na vibration unlike ‘yung first few days nung binuksan natin medyo nagva-vibrate and maingay,” Dizon said.

“Very stable na tayo ngayon. In fact, nagtaas pa tayo ng capacity, kaya na natin up to 15 tons,” he added.

Agana Bridge collapsed on August 29 following strong river currents and severe flooding caused by the southwest monsoon.

Dizon said large steel beams have been installed.

“Proteksyon ito para pag lumaki ulit ang mga ilog at madaganan ng mga bato, protektado na at di na mauulit kasi ganun ang nangyari. Binangga ng malalaking debris na dala ng mga ilog ‘yung mga sementong ‘yan, ‘yun ang nanira,” he said.

Dizon also announced plan to construct another bridge beside the Agana Bridge.

“Next year sisimulan na ang isa pang tulay katabi ng Agana, para do-doble na capacity. From 2 lanes dito sa existing tulay, hopefully by next year or early 2028 tapos na yug 2nd Agana bridge natin,” he said.

The DPWH also announced that it will begin reconstruction of Aquino Bridge, which collapsed on August 28. The agency is also considering the construction of a second Aquino Bridge.