MANILA, Philippines - Raging floodwaters due to the intense downpour from tropical storm "Mario" and the southwest monsoon washed away a highway detour bridge in Camarines Norte on Thursday night.
The bridge, part of the Maharlika Highway leading to the province, in Santa Elena town was destroyed as the muddy water rose and caused the concrete structure, which was under repair, to crumble.
Camarines Norte Gov. Edgar Tallado said in an interview with dzMM that motorists from Manila going to Daet have to be diverted to Quirino Highway (called Andaya Highway) all the way through Sipocot in Camarines Sur.
Two hours are added to the usual travel time due to the destroyed bridge.