Relief in sight for farmers: Unsafe and aging Nambucayan, San Julian Bridges in Tabuk to be replaced under DAR’s P28.24-B DAR Program

TABUK CITY, Kalinga – Two aging and dilapidated bridges in Tabuk City may soon be replaced, bringing hope for safer travel and improved access to markets and essential services for residents and farmers in nearby communities.

The proposed 40-meter Nambucayan Bridge and the replacement of the existing 27-meter San Julian Bridge moved a step closer to reality after the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)-Kalinga conducted a technical survey and site validation for their possible inclusion under the agency’s P28.24-billion bridge development program.

On June 23, DAR-Kalinga, headed by Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer (PARPO) II Adela S. Damaso, inspected the proposed project sites together with Systra Philippines and other stakeholders.

The inspection forms part of the evaluation process undertaken by DAR before bridge projects can be endorsed under the Pang-Agraryong Tulay para sa Bagong Bayanihan ng mga Magsasaka (PBBM) Program.

For years, residents have relied on the existing Nambucayan and San Julian bridges, which have deteriorated due to age and continuous use. Community members have expressed concerns over the condition of the structures, which serve as vital links for farmers, students, workers, and residents traveling to and from the area.

The construction of new bridges is expected to significantly improve safety and mobility, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The projects are also seen to ease the transport of agricultural products, reduce travel time and transportation costs, and provide better access to schools, healthcare facilities, and markets.

The P28.24-billion program, a nationwide infrastructure initiative under the government's Build Better More agenda, seeks to improve farmer mobility, lower transportation and logistics costs, and strengthen access to economic and social services in rural communities.

In its report, DAR-Kalinga expressed hope for the earliest possible implementation of the bridge projects so that residents can benefit from improved access to markets and essential services while helping boost agricultural productivity in the province.

“DAR continues to strengthen rural infrastructure and promote inclusive agricultural development, ultimately improving the productivity and quality of life of agrarian reform beneficiaries and rural communities,” the provincial DAR office wrote.

Once approved, the Nambucayan and San Julian bridge projects are expected to provide long-term benefits to surrounding communities by replacing unsafe structures with more durable and reliable infrastructure, improving connectivity and supporting rural development in Tabuk City.