World · Philippines Bureau
Temporary Bailey bridge opens as Ilocos Sur repairs weather-damaged crossing
The Department of Public Works and Highways has deployed a temporary Bailey bridge in Santa, Ilocos Sur, after heavy rains forced the closure of the Calungbuyan Bridge. The interim structure will restore vital connectivity for residents and commuters until permanent repairs are completed.
LSN Philippines ·
SAN ILDEFONSO, ILOCOS SUR — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has commenced construction of a temporary Bailey bridge in Santa, Ilocos Sur, to restore passage across a key transportation corridor damaged by recent heavy rainfall. The move follows the closure of the Calungbuyan Bridge, which sustained structural damage from continuous precipitation that rendered it unsafe for vehicular traffic.
The Bailey bridge design, developed by British engineer Sir Donald Coleman Bailey in 1940, provides a rapid deployment solution for temporary crossings. The modular steel structure can be assembled and installed with minimal equipment and labor, making it an effective interim measure for restoring connectivity in affected communities.
The temporary crossing will allow residents, commercial vehicles, and commuters to resume normal traffic flows while the DPWH undertakes detailed assessments and repairs to the Calungbuyan Bridge. Local officials have indicated that the permanent restoration work will proceed in phases once weather conditions stabilize and structural evaluations are finalized.
The DPWH has prioritized the project to minimize disruption to the region's transport network and local commerce. Communities dependent on the bridge for market access and daily operations are expected to resume normal activities once the temporary structure becomes fully operational.