₱19M detour bridge in Alcala formally reopened; DPWH Secretary Dizon leads opening

Alcala, Cagayan – A ₱19-million detour bridge in Barangay Piggatan, Alcala, Cagayan was formally reopened on December 19, 2025, assuring the public that the temporary structure is safe, sturdy, and capable of carrying vehicles weighing up to 40 tons.

The detour bridge was completed in just two months and will serve as a temporary solution to restore mobility while the construction of a permanent bridge is planned for early next year. The reopening was personally led by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon.

According to DPWH Region 2, as cited by the Cagayan Provincial Information Office (PIO), the agency has imposed vehicle classifications and traffic restrictions to ensure safety. Unloaded trailers, tankers, 10-wheelers, and dump trucks weighing up to 27 tons are allowed to cross one at a time.

Meanwhile, loaded trailers weighing up to 40 tons are also limited to single crossings or are directed to alternate routes, such as the Junction Cattaran–Cumao–Capissayan–Sta. Margarita Road via Baybayog–Baggao–Dalin–Sta. Margarita in Baggao town.

The agency added that light vehicles, including motorcycles, tricycles, cars, minibuses, and similar vehicles, may cross freely.

It can be recalled that the 45-year-old bridge collapsed on October 6, 2025 due to overloaded vehicles, causing four trucks—including two loaded 16-wheelers—to fall into the riverbed and injuring six people. According to national media reports, the collapse disrupted traffic and affected motorists, commuters, and local residents.

Secretary Dizon emphasized that the bridge’s rapid completion—within just two months—demonstrates that infrastructure projects can be implemented quickly and efficiently with proper planning, quality workmanship, and a strong commitment to public service.