Authorities are investigating and inspecting Cabagan-Santa Maria Bridge in Isabela province after it collapsed on Thursday evening, February 27.
According to the report by RH 25 Grace Sansano, Isabela Governor Rodito Albano ordered the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) to identify and help in locating the victims of the collapsed bridge.
Albano said they are also trying to locate the truck driver who escaped after its occurrence. They suspect the driver might have been frightened by what happened and tried to escape.
The driver remains at large, at the time of writing.
The governor said they hope the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will continue investigating why a portion of the bridge crumbled.
Albano underscored the importance of prioritizing the victims’ well-being.
Authorities continued their inspection and investigation this morning, with assistance from the officials of the DPWH.
Part of the newly opened bridge in Isabela province collapsed on Thursday evening, injuring six people. They were immediately brought to the Milagros Albano District Hospital.
The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) -Cabagan said in a social media post that all but one of the victims sustained minor injuries. One victim sustained severe injuries and was immediately transferred to the Cagayan Valley Medical Center.
Additionally, four vehicles including a dump truck, two Sports Utility Vehicle, and one motorcycle, were crossing the bridge at around 8 PM and plunged into the river below.
