Dimasalang Bridge to reopen on Oct. 20 ahead of Undas: DPWH

MANILA — The northbound portion of the Dimasalang Bridge in Sampaloc, Manila is expected to reopen by Oct. 20, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said Wednesday. 

The bridge, which spans around 40 meters, is undergoing major rehabilitation and is being rebuilt to ensure its safety and durability. 

“Fifty-six years old na po itong tulay na ‘to, ang daming mga tulay natin sa Pilipinas na ganiyan na ‘yung mga edad… Ang maganda dito, kakasimula lang nito nung June, so apat na buwan pa lang mahigit,” DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said. 

The remaining work includes completing the sidewalk and asphalt paving. 

Dizon noted the importance of completing the project before Undas, when thousands of Filipinos are expected to visit the Manila North Cemetery. 

“Lalong-lalo na mag-u-Undas na, ang North Cemetery andun lang, eh kung lumagpas ‘to ng Undas kawawa naman ‘yung mga kababayan natin,” he said. 

The project has a total allocation of P160 million for both sides of the bridge. The southbound side has already been completed. 

Meanwhile, Dizon said he would inspect a recently damaged flood-mitigation structure in Arayat, Pampanga on Friday following a report from the local government unit. 

“May bumigay na flood mitigation na kabago bago. Kasama sa warranty period ‘yun,” he said.