Bridge in Bohol closed after damage sustained from heavy rains

By Leo Udtohan

TAGBILARAN CITY- The Wahig Pamacsalan Bridge in Pilar town in Bohol province was closed to motorists on Thursday after sustaining heavy damage from days of incessant raining. 

The damage created a big hole, making it dangerous for vehicles and people to cross.

The bridge connects villagers from Lumbay and Poblacion to essential amenities in town and neighboring Sierra Bullones town. 

Gov. Aris Aumentado who personally checked the bridge on Thursday afternoon had already instructed the provincial engineer's office to conduct rapid assessment to repair the new bridge. 

"We will repair it as soon as possible," he said while talking to village officials. 

Local officials advised motorists to take an alternate route while the bridge is awaiting assessment from authorities.

Barangay Captain Geronimo Tutor said the bridge was damaged for the second time after damaged by typhoon Odette in Dec. 2021. 

On Friday, Jan. 13, barangay officials would hold a "bayanihan" to fix the temporary bridge by putting material across the space to allow people to cross and travel into town for services. 

Meanwhile, Aumentado visited evacuation centers to distribute relief packs to the evacuees with Provincial Social Welfare and Development and local governments. 

He distributed packs to 146 families in Clarin town and 38 families in Inabanga town on Thursday. 

A total of 626 families or 788 individuals evacuated in the province due to inclement weather.  

Classes and work in all public institutions were also suspended on Thursday. 

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Photo caption: 

The Wahig Pamacsalan Bridge in Pilar town in Bohol province sustained heavy damage from two days of incessant rains. Photo courtesy of Gov. Aris Aumentado