CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-7) is set to demolish some of the informal settlers and even commercial structures to give way to the ongoing restoration project of Sanciangko Bridge near the Taboan Public Market.
San Nicolas Proper Barangay Captain Clifford Jude Niñal said that the restoration work has slowed down because of the impending clearing operation within the 10-meter radius from the foot of the old bridge.
The 1953 bridge was demolished in August after its structural integrity was assessed to be already unsafe. Clearance from the Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission (CHAC) had been secured prior to the demolition, it being a heritage site.
“Nag-meeting mi sa taga DPWH kay 10-meters from the bridge gyud, dili pwede nga naay “musakay” ana…Kanang kilid sad, mao pud nay bakbakon kay agian sa equipment,” Ninal said.
Clearing these dwellings and other structures seem like an afterthought, but Ninal said, based on his understanding and own experience, DPWH had to act on it immediately as the bridge is no longer safe.
“Dilapidated, delikado na kayo…Gub-on na tanan…Tay-og na gyud na siya…Kon mahuman na ni, mas manindot na niya ni and more importantly, safe. Gidali na nila kay nangatipak tipak na…ang mga kabilya pirti na’ng tayaa…Maski ako muagi, mutuyok na lang kos pikas kay ma timingan nya ko’g malusbo,” Ninal said.
Based on the plan, Ninal said, the bridge would be widened a bit enough to accommodate at least two vehicles under a two-way traffic while also restoring its old design with beautiful lamp post that would give another feel of the area.
“Heritage biya na nga bridge…Nindot na unya na puhon pud diha and mawa na ang mga namuyo sa bridge,” Ninal added.
The number of affected dwellers and structures are yet to be determined but some of them have already been tagged by Task Force Gubat sa Baha previously.
“Ang DPWH maoy mubayad ani sa maigo…Makig negotiate sila nila, but ni assist lang pud mi sa barangay,” Ninal said. – FPL (CEBU NEWS)